On 16-18 September 2024, the Ninth Seminar on Cooperation with national focal points took place at the seat of the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or “the Court”) in The Hague, The Netherlands. For three days, a number of officials and focal points from States where investigations are being conducted and other States playing a key role in cooperation met with Court officials and staff to discuss cooperation with the ICC and share good practices. Thirty-five representatives from twenty States were present, including representatives from six States not parties to the Rome Statute.
ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane stated: “The ICC has reached several significant milestones. The Court’s work has expanded to four different continents and about 20 countries. Cases have been brought against more than 50 persons, and that does not include arrest warrants issued under seal. […] This of course could only be accomplished with States’ cooperation which was done with your practical contribution. You are truly an asset for the Court and I hope that you also feel proud of the Court’s accomplishments.”
In welcoming the delegates, ICC Prosecutor Karim A. A. Khan KC said: “Focal points are the essential bridges between the ICC and States, I truly commend the critical role you play in unlocking issues, facilitating consultations before requests for assistance and following up on their implementation, as well as coordinating with relevant agencies within their respective countries, etc. This seminar is a concrete realization of the ever evolving and strengthening bond between the ICC and national jurisdictions. In our new policy on Complementarity and Cooperation we have resolved to further strengthen that bond, as we determinedly work together towards our common goal of fighting impunity for mass atrocities. Thank you for your partnership in this cause.”
ICC Registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler stated: “Cooperation is one of the core pillars that sustain our ability to deliver our mandate, but it also nurtures our system as your expertise and guidance strengthen the Court.”
States play an essential role in implementing the Court’s decisions, orders and requests, and States Parties often nominate a national focal point to coordinate and channel communications between national authorities and the Court. This week, the focal points discussed topics related to cooperation, shared good practices and found the best ways to move forward to continue ensuring effective and efficient cooperation between the focal points and the Court, with a view to continue the Court’s efforts in improving the efficiency of the ICC’s proceedings.
The seminar with focal points forms part of broader efforts to further advance cooperation with the ICC and enhance global support for the Court, in particular in countries where investigations are ongoing. The seminar was funded by the European Union.
The Court would like to avail this opportunity to thank all of the focal points for their exceptional dedication and hard work in supporting the ICC’s proceedings and for their participation in this seminar.
