August 5, 2024
Thank you, Mr. President.
First of all, I would like to congratulate Sierra Leone on its assumption of the Council’s presidency this month.
I thank Prosecutor Khan for his thirty-ninth report on the situation in Darfur, in accordance with resolution 1593.
Mr. President,
During ICC President Judge Akane’s visit last month to New York, she said the Court would “work to bring justice to victims of atrocities by carrying out fair and impartial proceedings against individuals who have committed crimes,” and that “the ICC’s proceedings will serve as a message that atrocities must not be repeated.” Japan would like to remind the Council of this critical role of the ICC to end impunity thereby contributing to the maintenance of international peace and security.
Japan is gravely concerned about the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan and the spreading violence and continued violations of international law, including reports of sexual and gender-based violence and ethnically motivated attacks. We reiterate our call on all parties to immediately cease hostilities throughout the country, to enter into serious, direct negotiations, and to agree to and implement an immediate and lasting ceasefire without pre-conditions. The protection of civilians should be ensured in accordance with international humanitarian law and human rights law.
Regarding the recent activities of the Court, Japan welcomes the positive steps taken by the Sudanese authorities, including addressing requests for assistance by the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP), as well as the issuance of visas. It is also notable that dialogue with the tribal leadership of Arab communities from Darfur was conducted for the first time. Japan hopes that this positive momentum of cooperation will be further consolidated, so that the OTP can fulfill its mandate.
Another example of progress to note is the trial of Mr. Abd-Al-Rahman. Japan commends the efficient conducting of proceedings at the Court, and we hope the current pace will lead to judgement in the course of 2025. In this regard, it is critical to ensure that the other persons accused of grave crimes committed in Darfur who remain fugitives from justice be held accountable without delay. Justice delayed is justice denied. The vicious circle of impunity and criminality should be terminated. We urge the Court to redouble its efforts and strongly encourage countries to cooperate in this regard to end the suffering of the people in Sudan.
Japan also takes note of the OTP’s continued engagement with affected communities and encourages it to demonstrate tangible progress for the victims.
The atrocities in Darfur in the past and the ongoing violence in Sudan should never be dismissed. Accountability for past crimes is central to preventing future atrocities.
Justice must be done to establish durable peace in Sudan. In this regard, we take note of the OTP’s efforts to enhance complementarity in line with its newly launched policy in April 2024.
Finally, let me express Japan’s commitment to preserve the ICC’s integrity undeterred by any threats or measures against the Court, its officials and those cooperating with it. Our support for the Court as an independent and impartial judicial institution remains unchanged.
I thank you.