
On International Criminal Justice Day 2024, the global legal community emphasizes the critical need for state commitment to justice for victims of international crimes. The International Bar Association’s ICC & ICL Programme has called for robust support of the Rome Statute system, which is essential in addressing serious crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. This system provides a legal framework that empowers the International Criminal Court (ICC) to hold perpetrators accountable where national courts are unable or unwilling to act.
Victims of these grave offenses often endure immense suffering and seek justice and reparations. States play a pivotal role in ensuring the effectiveness of international criminal justice mechanisms by ratifying and implementing international treaties like the Rome Statute. The IBA stresses the importance of collaboration between:
- States
- Legal experts
- Civil society
to strengthen global justice efforts.
International Criminal Justice Day serves as a reminder of existing challenges in prosecuting international crimes, including:
- Jurisdictional issues
- Political resistance
However, renewed dedication to international legal instruments can enhance fairness and support for victims worldwide. The call to action encourages governments to:
- Reaffirm their commitments
- Invest in judicial systems
- Uphold human rights and international law
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