Stockholm, 18 July 2022 (TDI): On International Justice Day and the 24th anniversary of the Rome Statutes, the Foreign Minister of Sweden, Ann Linde, reaffirmed the support of Sweden for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its efforts to end impunity & bringing justice to the victims of the most serious crimes.
On the 24th anniversary of the #RomeStatute, 🇸🇪 reaffirms its steadfast support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) & its efforts to end impunity & bringing justice for the victims of the most serious crimes #InternationalCriminalJusticeDay #JusticeMatters @IntlCrimCourt
— Ann Linde (@AnnLinde) July 17, 2022
World Day for International Justice
The world observes International Criminal Justice Day on July 17 every year. It is to commemorate the organizations and institutions that work to provide Justice to those who get victimized due to criminal acts.
It also recognizes the establishment of modern systems of courts in the world. The day focuses on promoting international criminal justice and advocates the provision of fundamental human rights.
The day also marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute. On 17 July 1998, 120 states signed a treaty titled ‘Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.’
On July 1, 2022, the treaty came into force and marked the establishment of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The ICC mainly focuses on crimes against humanity (extermination, murder, etc.), war crimes (willfully causing suffering, torture, etc.), genocide (deliberately harming one community), and crimes of aggression (military occupation, annexation, etc.)
According to the Rome Statute, “It is the duty of every State to exercise its criminal jurisdiction over those responsible for international crimes.”
Also read: Slovakia on International Justice Day
Sweden’s Support to ICC
Earlier, on April 12, 2022, Ann Linde, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with the ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan. She assured full support to ICC amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The Minister announced that “Sweden will increase its support to the International Criminal Court by SEK 5 million.”
Following were her Press remarks:
“The alarming reports we’re receiving of executions, rape, and pillaging of civilian property in Bucha and other cities suggest a pattern of systematic violations and abuses and disregard for the laws of war.
International crimes must be investigated and those responsible brought to account. The ICC needs the full support of the international community.
Sweden and the EU support the ICC as a pillar of the international architecture that was established to uphold respect for international law and the rules-based international order.”
Furthermore, Sweden also contributes 2.5 million Euros annually to the ICC, in support. Moreover, The Swedish Police Authority and the Swedish Prosecution Authority also provide the ICC with national experts.
