General Assembly: 34th plenary meeting, 80th session

Good morning, everybody. The 24th plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The Assembly will begin its consideration of agenda item 74, entitled "Report of the International Criminal Court." The documentation under this item is listed in the Journal of the United Nations. I will now make a statement as the President of the General Assembly. Your Excellency Tomoko Akane, President of the International Criminal Court, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, the founders of the International Criminal Court were guided by a powerful conviction. that justice is a universal duty, a universal responsibility, and not merely an expression of national interest. They created an institution that ensures that those responsible for the gravest crimes, genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression are held to account. For these are crimes that threaten the peace, security and well-being of the world, as the State Parties to the Rome Statute recognized in its Preamble. Crimes that corrode the foundations of the international order upon which peace, development and human rights depend. Moreover, through the Rome Statute, the Court recognizes victims not as passive witnesses, but as participants in the pursuit of justice, restoring dignity where it was taken away. For survivors of genocides, crimes against humanity, and war crimes, the Court represents far more than an institution. It stands as a promise. A promise that justice, however long delayed, will ultimately prevail. that nobody is above the law. For more than two decades, the Court has confronted impunity and shown that even in the darkest moments, accountability remains possible. Yet today, as we witness atrocities that continue to shock humanity's conscience, it is evident that the Court's mission is far from complete. Indeed, Just this year, the Court has issued or unsealed arrest warrants in relation to the situations in Afghanistan, Libya, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Palestine. Ensuring that the Court can effectively discharge its missions depends on the resolve of its State Parties to implement the Rome Statute, defend the Court against attacks, and uphold three essential pillars of its work. universality, cooperation, and complementarity. With the ratification of the Rome Statute by Ukraine, there are now 125 state parties, strengthening its universality. Yet, the Court's strength depends on the cooperation of each state party in investigations, arrests, and the execution of warrants. The arrest of Mr. Duterte, former President of the Philippines, on charges of crimes against humanity, and his transferring to the ICC by the Philippines' national authority, is a demonstration of how such cooperation can transform principles into action. The same spirit of cooperation must guide the relationship between the United Nations and the ICC. As the report the President will present highlights, collaboration between our two institutions, grounded in shared ideals of peace, human rights, and justice, strengthens this common pursuit and reinforces the strength of international law. Excellencies, As the Court is set up on the principle of complementarity, intervening only when national systems are unwilling or unable to act, the stronger Member States' own judicial institutions and capacity to carry out investigations and prosecutions are, the less work and responsibility for the ICC. On the other hand, strong national judiciaries are the anchor of a strong International Criminal Court. This is why complementarity is so important. Independent judicial institutions, free from political interference, are among the most powerful safeguards to ensure that state parties investigate and prosecute crimes under the Rome Statute, and by that, strengthens international justice. However, we all know that we are living in fragmented times. While the vast majority of member states are strengthening international law, including the Rome Statute, concerning the crime of aggression, for example, during the reporting period, there has been an increased interference against the Court itself. Court officials have been sanctioned for defending the rule of law and pursuing accountability. and its systems have faced cyber attacks intended to undermine the Court's credibility. These are not isolated incidents. They are deliberate attacks against the Court which aim to weaken the rule of law and erode faith in international institutions. The General Assembly, therefore, in its resolution 79/6, underlines that the International Criminal Court and its officials and staff shall be able to carry out their mandate and professional duties as an international judicial institution and civil servants, respectively, without intimidation, and the resolution condemns any threats, attacks, or interference against the court, its personnel, or those cooperating with it. Coercive measures or institutional sanctions are not only attacks on the ICC, but assaults on the very principle of international law itself. The Court does not act on its own behalf, but in defence of the principles of the United Nations Charter, to protect all of us from the gravest crimes: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression. State parties, therefore, cannot remain silent. Indifference will lead to a world in which might makes right. Our promise to hold accountable those who commit the gravest crimes and atrocity will carry weight only if member states stand by the institution they created and uphold the justice the world still so urgently needs. With that, I hand over to the President, Tomoko Akane, and look forward to her presentation of the report. Madam President Akane, you have the floor.

Madam President of the General Assembly, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, at the outset, I'd like to congratulate Her Excellency Ms. Annalena Baerbock on her election as President of this 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Madam President, it is a particular honor to address this distinguished Assembly while the UN celebrates eight decades of work in service of international peace and security. I recall that This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the Nuremberg Tribunal. The ICC judges, including myself, visited Nuremberg, where we had the time to reflect on the foundation of the international criminal justice and universality of the need to pursue justice for the victims of atrocity crimes through fair judicial proceedings. The International Criminal Court was created by the UN member states because during the 20th century, millions of children, women, and men have been victims of unimaginable atrocities that deeply shocked the conscience of humanity. States recognized that such grave crimes threaten the peace, security, and well-being of the world, and that collective efforts are required to tackle this problem. The ICC was thus created by the international community to deal with the criminal responsibility of individuals and not that of states. Sadly, crimes that shock the conscience of humanity continue to plague this world, and the fight against impunity must continue with the full backing of the international community. During my brief remarks today, I will provide an overview of the Court's current state of affairs and selected selected topical issues, while the written report, issued as A/80/342, contains a more comprehensive account of the Court's activities during the reporting period. Madam President, the judges of the International Criminal Court act without fear or favour, lending legitimacy to the entire multilateral system and to the state parties to the Rome Statute who elected them. Their judgments remind international community that justice has a neutral voice that transcends borders and interests. But when these judges are pressured, threatened, or undermined, the credibility of international law itself weakened. During the reporting period, attacks, threats, and coercive measures against the Court and its officials have persisted and continue to pose a serious threat to the administration of justice by the Court. and the global fight against impunity. Civil society and those working for international justice have also been targeted by such acts. As set out in the written report, these include the sanctions imposed and arrest warrants issued against the judges and the leadership of the prosecution. as well as cyber attacks against the court. Each of you represents the sovereign interests of your nations. Yet, you are collectively stewards of a shared international order. Respecting judicial independence is an investment in the stability of that order. It is an affirmation that the rule of law should guide global relations. The court calls upon all UN member states to take action, both individually and collectively, in defense of the court and the principles enshrined in the Rome Statute. The unprecedented situation the Court faces has brought about a transformative shift in the Court's security posture, and this remains a key priority for the leadership of the Court. As part of the transformation in the Court's security profile, It is undertaken a variety of steps to upgrade and enhance our digital systems to make them more resilient. The court has undertaken internal efforts to strengthen its security and has also engaged and worked with external partners. Madam President, I would like to wholeheartedly thank states and other entities who have supported the Court in various forms during these difficult times. Without their support, the Court cannot continue its crucial work in the fight against impunity. The Court not only needs and receives political, diplomatic support, and the high number of cooperation requests sent during the reporting period proves how cooperation at the operational level is essential. For state parties, cooperation is a legal obligation under Part 9 of the Statute, and the obligation to arrest and surrender is one of the means to give effect to the obligation to cooperate with the Court in the execution of its mandate. As at the end of the reporting period, there were 33 publicly known arrest warrants which remained unexecuted. The Court strongly urges state parties to continue to fulfill their statutory obligations in line with the commitment made when signing the Rome Statute. Madam President, universality of the Rome Statute is one of the most important means to increase the Court's legitimacy and reinforce the commitment made by the international community when the court was established. As of 1st January 2025, for the first time since its establishment, the court's membership has expanded to 125 state parties, representing approximately two-thirds of the international community in all regions. Although this already represents a commitment of extraordinary significance, the Court will continue its efforts to increase the number of State parties, and it appreciates the efforts taken by our civil society partners in raising awareness and in promoting the universal ratification and full implementation of the Statute and to the European Union, which continues to generously support activities aimed at achieving universality. During the reporting period, the Court also continued efforts to further enhance cooperation with regional and international organizations. The United Nations is indeed a key partner of the Court. In line with the 2004 Relationship Agreement, during the past year, the Court has continued to receive crucial cooperation and support from various United Nations entities. the departments, offices, and special advisors and representatives of the Secretary-General, including those present in the field. The cooperation and collaboration with United Nations in all parts of the world have been vital for the ICC. A more detailed summary of the Court's cooperation with the United Nations is set out at paragraph 86 to 97 of the written report. The Court expresses its sincere appreciation for such invaluable assistance, without which the Court's activities cannot be sustained. Madame President, I will now turn to the Court's prosecutorial and judicial activities and achievements. During the reporting period, the Court continued to observe a high workload, and the various chambers of the Court have collectively issued 382 written decisions. Allow me to start with the situation in Darfur, Sudan. I recall that in March 2005, the Security Council referred the situation to the Court by way of Resolution 1593. The case against Mr. Abdurrahman was the first trial emanating from the referral. On 6 October 2025, after the submission of the written report, Trial Chamber I rendered its judgement in the Abdurrahman case. After assessing 1,861 pieces of evidence and assessing the evidence given by 74 witnesses, the Trial Chamber convicted Mr. Abdurrahman, a former Janjaweed commander, of 27 counts of crimes against humanity and war crimes in Darfur, Sudan, between August 2003 and April 2004. He is now awaiting the decision on his sentence. 1,591 victims were authorised to participate in the trial, and the Chamber is expected to issue a reparations order in due course. This is an encouraging example that shows that, even if with a delay, justice can and will be done. In another situation referred to the Court by the Security Council, the situation in Libya, the Pre-Trial Chamber issued and sealed several warrants of arrest during the reporting period. Notably, on 16 July 2025, Mr. El-Hissein, who is alleged to have committed crimes against humanity and war crimes, including murder, torture, rape, and acts of sexual violence in Libya, has been arrested by a State Party. When surrendered, the case against Mr. el-Hishri will be the first confirmation of charges proceedings arising from the situation in Libya. The Office of the Prosecutor has outlined to the Security Council a roadmap for the completion of the investigation phase in the situation by the end of 2025. The Court also welcomes the declaration submitted by the competent authorities of the Government of Libya on 12 May 2025 accepting the Court's jurisdiction pursuant to Article 12 paragraph 3 of the Statute with respect to alleged crimes in its territory from 2011 to the end of 2027. At the pretrial level, the case against Mr. Joseph Kony, alleged Commander-in-Chief of the LRA, constitutes a first case in which the Court proceeded with confirmation of charges proceedings in the absence of the suspect pursuant to Article 61, paragraph 2, of the Statute. The Pre-Trial Chamber had found that the exceptional in absentia hearings are justified, given that the victims of alleged crimes committed by Mr. Kony have been awaiting justice for over 18 years, and noted that such in absentia proceedings might be the only way for the victims to express their views and concerns. Just last Thursday, on 6 November, the Pretrial Chamber issued its decision confirming all of the charges. The trial can, of course, commence only once Mr. Kony is in custody, and the Court calls upon all relevant actors to cooperate in ensuring his speedy surrender. In the situation in Afghanistan, the Court issued arrest warrants against the Supreme Leader of the Taliban, Mr. Haibatullah Akhundzada, and the Chief Justice of the Taliban, Mr. Abdul Hakim Haqqani, for the crime against humanity of persecution on gender and political grounds. Allegations of systematic discrimination and persecution against women and girls, as well as minority and opposition groups, have been a priority for investigation by the Office of the Prosecutor. In relation to the situation in the State of Palestine, Arrest warrants were issued against the Prime Minister of Israel, Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu, and the then Minister of Defense, Mr. Yoav Gallant, for the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare and the crime against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts. The arrest warrant issued against the highest commander of the military wing of Hamas, Mr. Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri, was subsequently withdrawn due to his death. With respect to the situation in Philippines, Mr. Rodrigo Duterte was surrendered to the Court on 12 March 2025 after being arrested by the authorities of the Republic of the Philippines. Confirmation proceedings with respect to the charges of crimes against humanity of murder and attempted murder are ongoing. The summary of the pretrial activities as set out in the written report, of course, does not include many other warrants that were issued under seal. as well as the enormous work done by the different pretrial chambers, which, unfortunately, cannot be shared due to their confidential nature. Active investigations by the Office of the Prosecutor have been ongoing in several situations, including Ukraine and Venezuela. The Court has continued efforts to enhance its tracking capabilities, but arrest warrants cannot be executed without the cooperation of States. Again, the Court urges all UN Member States to assist the Court by cooperating on the arrest and transfer of individuals subject to outstanding ICC arrest warrants. The Judiciary also continued to exercise oversight over the Prosecution's investigations in various situations and rendered several decisions on jurisdiction and admissibility pursuant to Articles 17, 18, and 19 of the Statute. On 12 September 2025, Pretrial Chamber II determined that the case against Mr. Edmond Bayner is inadmissible, as the Central African Republic is willing and able to genuinely investigate and prosecute the case against Mr. Bayner, putting in practice the principle of complementarity. At the trial level, Trial Chamber V issued a trial judgement in the case against Mr. Alfred Yekatom, a former member of parliament and an anti-Balaka commander, and Mr. Patrice-Edouard Ngaissona, a former minister and the anti-Balaka coordinator. The Chamber convicted Mr. Yekatom and Mr. Ngaissona of several war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in the context of an armed conflict between the Seleka and the anti-Balaka groups in Bangui and in the west of Central African Republic between September 2013 and at least February 2014. Mr. Yekatom was sentenced to 15 years and Mr. Gaisorna to 12 years of imprisonment. A total of 1,965 victims participated in these trial proceedings, and the Chamber will now consider the issuance of a reparations order. Meanwhile, the trial against Mr. Saeed, allegedly a former Seleka commander, is ongoing, and the trial judgment is expected in 2026. Mr. Alhassan, who was previously convicted for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Timbuktu, Mali, was sentenced to a total of 10 years of imprisonment. The Appeals Chamber subsequently reviewed the sentence and reduced it by 12 months. The Appeals Chamber continued its appellate work and is seized with the appeals arising from the Iekatom and Gaisorna case and from Abdurrahman case. It also continues to handle several interlocutory appeals, which touch upon complex and important issues. During the reporting period, the Appeals Chamber also issued two judgements on reparations. Madame President, victims of mass atrocities remain at the centre of the ICC proceedings. The Court gives victims a voice, a space to tell their stories, and the hope that truth will be acknowledged and responsibility established. Providing suffering humanity with hope and truth is at the very core of the Court's raison d'etre. Reparations are also an integral part of ICC proceedings, which aim at realizing restorative justice. The Court, together with its local and international partners, will continue to put in practice the principle of restorative justice that was inscribed into the Rome Statute system. The Trust Fund for Victims, or TFV, is a vital pillar of the International Criminal Court's legitimacy. In 2024 alone, the TFV has delivered tangible reparative justice to thousands of victims, restoring dignity, healing communities, and reinforcing the rule of law in the wake of atrocity crimes. TFV-supported reparations have a transformative impact, enhancing victims' sense of justice, promoting gender inclusivity, strengthening community cohesion, and improving socioeconomic and psychological well-being. In the situation in Uganda, Trial Chamber IX issued a reparations order in the case of Dominic Ongwen, who previously had been found guilty of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in northern Uganda between 2002 and 2005. 5. 49,772 victims were recognized as victims of crimes committed by Mr. Ongwen, and the reparations order awarded 750 euros to every victim of the crime as a symbolic award. During the reporting period, the reparations order was confirmed by the Appeals Chamber. I was in Uganda last month and interacted with representatives of the affected communities. I have heard directly from them as to how important the swift implementation of reparation is for the victims. Due regard must be paid to these expectations of the affected communities and the Court call upon states to consider making financial contributions for the implementation of reparations order. Contribution If contributions, even symbolic, send a powerful political message, they affirm the legitimacy of the ICC, demonstrate solidarity with victims, and reinforce the international community's commitment to peace, justice, and accountability. Madam President, for decades, the international community has worked to build a system in which relations among states are governed by the rule of law. It is worth recalling that the very idea of international criminal tribunals dealing with the most serious crimes was born out of the ruins of the Second World War and out of the suffering of countless innocent victims. The Genocide Convention of 1948 already envisaged an international penal tribunal with jurisdiction for the crime of genocide, and the ICC is a product of years of negotiations under the auspices of the UN. It is our collective duty to cherish this precious project created by the wisdom of mankind. Earlier this year, in his address to this Assembly, the President of the International Court of Justice, His Excellency Judge Iwasawa, stated that, I quote, "The rule of law is not a static achievement, but a continuous and collective endeavor," unquote. Indeed, sustaining the international rule of law is a perpetual endeavor which requires collective action by the international community and the full use of tools and institutions that exist to safeguard the international legal order. Yet, we are constantly reminded of the fragility of this endeavor and how a momentary lapse in our commitment can have a detrimental impact on a decade's work. Despite all the challenges, the International Criminal Court will continue to carry out its judicial mandate to deal with individual criminal responsibility. with full independence and impartiality. In so doing, the Court hopes to offer its contribution to the rule of law in the international community. Madame President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, that concludes the presentation of the Court's annual report to this Assembly. I thank you for giving me this opportunity today. And the Court looks forward to continued collaboration with the United Nations and its member states. Thank you very much.

I thank the President of the International Criminal Court for the report. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to introduce draft resolution A/80/L.9.

Thank you, Madam President. The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statement that will be delivered by the European Union. Let me begin by thanking President Agana for her presentation and for her leadership as President of the ICC. Madam President, the Kingdom of the Netherlands is proud to be the host state and a firm and staunch supporter of the International Criminal Court. Allow me, please, first to quickly touch on the ICC and the Rome Statute system. After that, I will proceed with introducing this year's resolution. To go back in 1998, the international community embarked on an ambitious new path to end impunity for the most serious international crimes by adopting the Rome Statute. The Rome Statute has transformed an aspiration into an institution, and ever since its entry into force in 2002, the number of States Parties have doubled. Earlier this year, as you know, Ukraine has joined the Statute. And in May of this year, as mentioned by the ICC President, Libya has accepted the ICC's jurisdiction with respect to alleged crimes in its territory from 2011 to the end of 2027. The ICC now has 125 member states from around the world, joined in their ambition to end impunity and to provide justice for the victims of international crimes. But the Rome Statute system is far more than the court of last resort in The Hague. The Rome Statute has also spurred major criminal law reforms on all continents, further enabling states to prosecute international crimes before their domestic courts, in line with the principle of complementarity. In this very light, I kindly urge countries that have not yet done so to sign and ratify the Ljubljana-The Hague Convention. Why? Well, because this convention will facilitate cooperation among states on mutual legal assistance and extradition for international crimes. Looking back, it is clear that the path taken by the international community in Rome has not been a straight line towards success, nor did we expect it to be. But the Court has nonetheless succeeded in establishing itself as an indispensable pillar in the global fight against impunity. Since its establishment, many States and the UN Security Council have called on the ICC to investigate international crimes and prosecute the alleged perpetrators. This year, as we heard from the ICC President, The Security Council referrals of the situations in Darfur and Libya have led to several tangible results. And as the world is now witnessing the recurrence of some of the most egregious crimes in Darfur and many other places in the world, it is clear that we must protect and strengthen the Court, as it is simply our most valuable asset in the fight against impunity. As the host state of the ICC, which we are proud of, the Kingdom of the Netherlands has unique responsibilities and legal obligations towards the Court, as set out in the Headquarters Agreement. I would like to make clear that we remain fully committed to fulfilling these obligations. Having said that, at the same time, we encourage all States Parties and non-State Parties to engage in constructive dialogue on the further shaping of our joint fight against impunity, so that we will be better able to respond to the legitimate demands of the victims of horrific big crimes and prevent further crimes with full respect for international law. Madam President, it is now my profound honour to introduce the draft resolution contained in document A/80/L.9. The draft resolution, as you all can see, welcomes the most recent report of the ICC on its activities. The resolution also acknowledges the role of the ICC in a multilateral system that aims to end impunity, promote the rule of law, advance and encourage respect for human rights, achieve sustainable peace, and further the development of nations. This all in accordance with international law and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. As in previous years, it was our intent, as you know, to present a draft that can count on the broadest possible support of the UN membership. This year's resolution, as you all could see, includes mere technical updates. I would like to sincerely and warmly thank all the states that have been able to co-sponsor the draft resolution. And now it's my privilege and honor to present the draft to the General Assembly for its adoption. And I hope that we can count again on your support for this very important and relevant resolution. Thank you, Madam President.

I thank the Distinguished Representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Sierra Leone on behalf of the African States Parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC.

Madam President, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the African State Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The International Criminal Court was created in 1998 with a legitimate ambition to bring to justice the perpetrators of the most serious crimes that affect the entire international community. and above all, to contribute to the prevention of such crimes. In this regard, the Court has made significant contributions to the global fight against impunity, as laid out in the report of the International Criminal Court on its activities during the current reporting period, as presented by the President of the ICC, Judge Tokoh Akane. As indicated in the report, The workload of the Court, in particular at the pretrial level, has reached an unprecedented level in terms of quantity and quality. This shows how relevant the Court is today. On 6 October 2025, the Court issued its first conviction arising from a situation referred to the Court by the UN Security Council. Two trial judgments were issued in 2025, and one trial is ongoing. Several cases are at the pre-trial stage, and the Appeals Chamber is seized with several appeals arising from the convictions, as well as interlocutory appeals involving important legal questions. However, there are 32 suspects at large. Madam President, African state parties attach great importance to the work of the ICC as an independent and impartial judicial institution, and reaffirm our unwavering support and commitment to combating impunity for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community. Prosecutorial and judicial independence is one of the key components of the rule of law. The independence of the ICC is paramount. and its legitimacy is derived from the sovereign decision of its State Parties from all regions. The judges, prosecutor, and deputy prosecutors are elected by State Parties. The ICC only applies the law within the mandate given to it by State Parties, as stipulated in the Rome Statute. It is essential that the International Criminal Court be able to perform its judicial mandate independently and without interference. Any action that could undermine its integrity or the confidence of State Parties in its work should be avoided as it would impede on the rights of victims. The African State Parties call on all States to respect the independence and impartiality of the International Criminal Court. The African State Parties reiterate our firm commitment to uphold and defend the principles and values enshrined in the Rome Statute and to preserve the Court's integrity, undeterred by any threat or measures against the Court, its officials, and those cooperating with it as appropriate. We stress the importance of ensuring that justice is applied equally in all situations under consideration by the Court. including in the allocation of resources across all cases. Therefore, we continue to encourage all State Parties, when allocating resources to the Court, to ensure that the core activities of the Court are funded through the regular budget, with allocation to all sections of the Court in order to support its activities in all situations and investigations. Victims are the core of the Rome Statute system. All victims, no matter where they come from, deserve equal access to impartial justice. We welcome and support the important work of the Trust Fund for Victims. The Court's report under consideration indicates that during the current reporting cycle, the Trust Fund for Victims implemented assistance programmes that benefited approximately 19,500 victims and their communities. In addition, The Trust Fund implemented numerous reparation awards in relation to four cases. The assistance and reparation programs have demonstrated a positive impact on victims and their communities. The African State Parties call on states that are able to do so to consider contributing to the Trust Fund for Victims to support its important activities. Madam President. The African state parties remain convinced that a peaceful world and justice for all are achievable. We believe that the fight against impunity and the rule of law must be a universal mission to be carried out by the international community as a whole. We recognize the role of the ICC as the world's first and only permanent international criminal court and as an integral part of the multilateral architecture upholding the rule of law. The ICC is an essential tool in the international legal order. Undermining the ICC also undermines the rule of law. The principle of complementarity is at the heart of the Rome Statute. The African State Parties support the ongoing efforts by the Court and within the Assembly of State Parties to promote this principle, which is the backbone of the Rome Statute system. Working towards enhancing complementarity By strengthening the capacity of national judicial systems to deal with the most serious crimes is key to achieving accountability. Indeed, the primary responsibility for investigating and prosecuting crimes under the Rome Statute rests with states. The ICC is a court of last resort and only steps in when states are unwilling or unable to genuinely conduct national proceedings. Madam President, allow me to recall that the African states played a key role in the establishment of the ICC and have continued to participate actively over the past 25 years in various aspects of the Court's work, including in the context of the Assembly of State Parties and through cooperation with the Court in the implementation of its mandate. We firmly believe that those who commit atrocity crimes anywhere in the world must be held accountable. We are committed to the universality of the Rome Statute and believe that increasing the number of state parties will ensure access to justice for victims from all geographical regions of the world. For this reason, the African state parties reiterate the appeal and call on all states that are yet to ratify the Rome Statute to consider ratifying the Rome Statute. Universal ratification of the Rome Statute and the incorporation of those norms into the domestic law of state must be a reality if all victims around the world are to have a chance to obtain justice. The world needs more justice, not less. Opting out of the Rome Statute system leaves a vast number of victims of atrocity crimes without access to justice, especially where national jurisdictions are unable or unwilling to investigate or prosecute. In this connection, the African State Parties urge our sister nations that are considering leaving the Rome Statute to reconsider their decisions. Cooperation from Member States, the United Nations, and related entities, and with other intergovernmental and civil society organizations is essential for the Court to fulfill its mandate. The African State Parties welcome the continued cooperation between the Court and the United Nations in line with the relationship agreement between the two organizations. In this regard, the African State Parties appreciate and support the important role played by the ICC liaison office to the UN. The African State Parties have continued to cooperate with the Court in various aspects of its work and stand ready to continue dialogue with the Court on ways to strengthen cooperation between our regional group and the Court. In this connection, and in closing, we welcome the Court's effort to develop its interaction with the African Union including through exploring the possibility of establishing a regional liaison office. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonia on behalf of the Baltic States.

President. Distinguished delegates, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the three Baltic states, Latvia, Lithuania, and my own country, Estonia. The Baltic states welcome the report of the International Criminal Court on its activities and reaffirm our unwavering support to the court. The ICC plays a vital role in the global fight against impunity for the most serious crimes of international concern. The ICC embodies the collective determination of states to ensure accountability where grave international crimes are committed and to providing justice for victims. The past year has been challenging for the ICC. In addition to growing workload and increased public attention, the ICC had to face threats and sanctions targeting its judges and officials. The Baltic States stand in full solidarity with the ICC in its mission to uphold justice, accountability, and the rule of law worldwide. We deplore the use of coercive measures and sanctions against the ICC judges and officials. We urge all States to refrain from any action contrary to the Rome Statute. As an independent and impartial judicial body, the ICC must remain shielded from political pressure. All ICC States Parties should stand united in supporting the ICC against any attempts to obstruct its work. During the reporting period, the arrest warrants in relation to a situation in Afghanistan, Philippines, Ukraine and the State of Palestine were issued, reflecting the ICC's determination to pursue accountability wherever crimes under its jurisdiction are committed. All States Parties should honour their duty to cooperate with ICC to implement the arrest warrants, as non-compliance prevents the ICC from exercising its functions. As the report makes clear, 33 public arrest warrants remain unimplemented, undermining accountability and prolonging the suffering of victims. The integrity of the Rome Statute system depends on full cooperation with States Parties in securing arrests and surrenders. We also fully concur with ICC reiterating the importance of respecting the Secretary-General's guidance on contacts with persons who are the subject of arrest warrants, or summonses issued by the ICC. The Baltic States equally condemn the recent cyberattacks against the ICC. Such acts are unacceptable and constitute an attack not only on the ICC, but on international justice itself. We commend the ICC for having conducted a comprehensive threat assessment of its information and communications technology, security infrastructure, and for developing a new security blueprint. During the reporting period, the ICC once again demonstrated its indispensable role as an independent, impartial judicial body. The conviction of Alfred Yekatom and Patrice Edouard Ngasona for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in the Central African Republic sent a powerful message that those responsible for atrocities will be held accountable. The confirmation of reparations in the case of Dominic Ongwen in Uganda and the continuing implementation of reparations in the Lubanga, Katanga, Ntaganda, and Al Mahdi cases highlights the Court's unique ability to deliver justice and redress to victims. The Baltic States recall the central role of a trust fund for victims in supporting rehabilitation, recovery, and empowerment of victims of atrocity crimes. Trust Fund for Victims was meanwhile extended assistance programs to 19,500 direct beneficiaries in 2024. Also in 2024, the Trust Fund received over 5.7 million euros from 29 states, the highest amount since 2004. The Trust Fund has taken further steps to engage additional donors. We repeat our call upon state parties and other stakeholders to make voluntary contributions to a Trust Fund. President, the ICC currently has limited jurisdiction over the crime of aggression. We believe that the ICC should have jurisdiction over all four core crimes under equal conditions. It is regrettable that during the special session this July, state parties were unable to fully address this legal gap. We therefore urge state parties to intensify their efforts to build consensus towards harmonizing the court's jurisdiction. Russia's unjustified and illegal brutal war of aggression against Ukraine is in its fourth year. By ratifying the Rome Statute, Ukraine made a crucial step towards bringing the perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity to justice. At the same time, we regret that some states have announced their withdrawal from the Rome Statute. We encourage these states to review their decision and remain states parties to the Rome Statute. Finally, The main culprits of the war of aggression against Ukraine, including the Russian leadership, must be held accountable. The Baltic States welcome the establishment of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression in the framework of the Council of Europe and call upon all supporting states to join the enlarged partial agreement on the management committee of the special tribunal to make the tribunal operational as soon as possible. The international community should continue our steadfast support to Ukraine in a fight against impunity. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Estonia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovakia on behalf of the S3 Group.

Madam President, Excellencies, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the three countries belonging to the Slavkov format, Austria, Czech Republic, and my own country, Slovakia. We fully align ourselves with the statement on behalf of the European Union. Let me start with expressing our thanks to Judge Tamoko Akane, the President of the International Criminal Court, for presenting the latest report of the ICC and for her leadership of the Court in the current challenging times. Madam President, the Rome Statute is founded on the crucial recognition that the most serious crimes under international law threaten the peace, security and well-being of the world and therefore they must not go unpunished. It reflects the necessity to uphold international law, inter alia, by pursuing accountability of the perpetrators and justice for the victims. These efforts can be best achieved by the widest possible participation of states in the Rome Statute system. In this regard, we welcome Ukraine as the most recent State Party as of 1 January 2025. We also welcome the acceptance or ratification of the amendments regarding the crime of aggression by four States during the reporting period. At the same time, we regret the decision of Hungary to withdraw from the Rome Statute and from the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the Court as well as the recent announcement by Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger of their intent to withdraw from the Rome Statute. We believe that these developments represent only a brief pause to the commitment of these countries to international justice. Universal participation in the Rome Statute system would correspond to the universal reach of its prosecutorial and judicial activities, which have covered situations in Africa, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Asia and Latin America. The global reach of the Court's activities further underlines the essential need for States to cooperate with the ICC. In that regard, we wish to underscore the indispensable role of States in providing the necessary assistance to the Court in the execution of 33 outstanding arrest warrants. We also acknowledge the essential cooperation of numerous entities of the United Nations system with the International Criminal Court based on the Relationship Agreement. With respect to the United Nations Security Council, we see a greater potential of enhancing its relationship with the Court, for instance, by an effective follow-up on the Court's activities resulting from the exercise of the referral prerogative of the Council. We recognize the efficiency of the Court in dealing with an increased workload at all stages of judicial proceedings. We welcome the notable developments, such as the issuance of the trial judgment in the Ekatom and Nguesso case, convicting both accused persons of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in the Central African Republic, or the trial judgment in the Abdelrahman case, convicting the accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in Darfur. These judgments serve as tangible evidence of the results that international cooperation can provide for the affected communities and victims in particular, but also for the broader resolution of conflicts in general. Madam President, the last year has been overshadowed by threats and attacks against the Court, its officials, personnel, and other stakeholders cooperating with it. We are concerned over the sanctions and other restrictive measures, like arrest warrants against court officials, being imposed on, by definition, an independent and impartial judicial institution for merely carrying out its mandate. We therefore strongly appeal to other States to unequivocally respect the independence of the Court and to refrain from any action that would undermine its essential work. Madam President, we cannot conclude without mentioning victims. The Trust Fund for Victims is an essential component of the Rome Statute system, underlining the focus of the Court on the victims and survivors of the most horrific crimes. We are convinced that supporting its activities especially in view of some recent voluminous reparation orders, provides an important form of assistance to the Court. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovakia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iceland on behalf of the Nordic countries.

Madam President, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the five Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Iceland. Let me thank President Akane for being with us today and for presenting the annual report of the International Criminal Court to the General Assembly. Madam President, The international community is currently facing one of its most severe tests since the founding of the United Nations 80 years ago. We are witnessing the most widespread proliferation of armed conflicts since the end of the Second World War. In conflicts and other situations alike, atrocity crimes are being committed with impunity, inflicting untold suffering on civilians and communities. These egregious crimes shock the conscience of humankind and pose a grave threat to international peace and security. In these precarious times, the pledge enshrined in the Rome Statute to guarantee lasting respect for and the enforcement of international justice remains as vital as ever. The mission of the Rome Statute and of the ICC is aligned with and reinforces the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. Since its establishment, the Court has cemented itself as a pillar of the international justice system. Its work has shed light on atrocity crimes committed across the world and ensures a vital avenue for access to justice. However, the capacity of the ICC to fulfill its mandate of upholding accountability and ending impunity is contingent upon effective cooperation between actors who share a common commitment to peace, security and justice. The Nordic countries note with appreciation the continued emphasis placed in the Court's report on the crucial cooperation and support received from the United Nations and its leadership in line with the 2004 Relationship Agreement. Madam President, the core international crimes of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression are of such a serious nature that their commission is a shared concern of the whole international community. As is recognized in the Rome Statute, each state bears the primary duty to exercise its jurisdiction in respect of these crimes to ensure that they do not go unpunished. As the world's sole permanent international criminal court, the ICC serves as a court of last resort when states are unwilling or unable to prosecute those responsible themselves. The Nordic countries stress that under the Rome Statute, States Parties have undertaken the solemn obligation to cooperate fully with the Court, and this includes the obligation to comply with requests from the Court for arrests and surrender. All States, whether Parties to the Rome Statute or not, can choose to cooperate with the ICC, and we strongly encourage all to do so in pursuit of justice for victims and survivors of the most serious international crimes. Madam President, the ICC is a victims' court. Its work is not only carried out on account of the victims and survivors of international crimes, it is characterized by and dependent on their active participation. The full realization of the rights of victims is an integral part of delivering international criminal justice. The Court's engagement and programs in service of victims and victim communities are a key feature of its contribution to reparative justice and reconciliation. In 2024, approximately 19,500 individuals, 69% of whom were women, benefited directly from the assistance programmes administered by the Trust Fund for Victims. The Nordic countries have consistently supported the Trust Fund, and we encourage States and other entities to support its continuing work by making voluntary contributions. Madam President, the Nordic countries remain gravely concerned about the increased pressure against the Court and its officials. The Court's report details attacks, threats and coercive measures from States and other external actors. Such actions do not only hamper the Court's indispensable work, but also propagate the impunity of those who commit the most serious international crimes, denying justice to their victims. We reiterate our full commitment to support the ICC and to preserve its integrity from any attacks, threats or pressure. and we call on all States to respect the independence and impartiality of the Court. We recognize the exceptional difficulties that Court officials, staff and those cooperating with the Court are currently experiencing. We commend them for their ongoing work in the interest of the administration of justice. The Nordic countries remain resolute in our enduring commitment to ensuring accountability for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community and to the central role of the ICC in that effort. We are heartened to stand alongside other State Parties in solidarity with the Court. In this regard, we welcome the outcome of the Special Session of the Assembly of State Parties in July this year, where the Assembly, by consensus, committed itself to the aim of strengthening the jurisdiction of the Court over the crime of aggression, a crime that, by its definition, is conducted against the Charter's purpose and principles and of the rule-based international order founded on the Charter. In closing, Madam President, the Nordic countries are unwavering in our support for the Court's independence, impartiality and integrity, and for the global fight against impunity. We call on all States that have not yet done so to ratify or accede to the Rome Statute. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Iceland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico on behalf of the Cross-Regional Group of States.

Thank you, Madam Chair. This statement is in support of the International Criminal Court and is endorsed by the following Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Chile, Colombia, Congo, Costa Rica, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Gabon, the Gambia, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Iceland, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Maldives, Mexico, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Panama, Peru, Portugal, Republic of Moldova, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, State of Palestine, Sweden, Switzerland, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay and Vanuatu. We, the undersigned States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, reaffirm our continued and unwavering support for the independence, impartiality, and integrity of the ICC. The Court is a cornerstone of the international criminal justice system and a critical mechanism to ensure accountability for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community. We express our deep concern over recent measures sanctioning ICC officials, staff, and those cooperating with the Court in response to the Court carrying out its mandate under the Rome Statute. Such measures erode the international rule of law, constitute an unacceptable interference with judicial independence, undermine ongoing investigations, and threaten the global fight against impunity. Sanctions against the ICC, which was established in relationship with the United Nations system, violate both the letter and spirit of the Rome Statute and consequently place victims, witnesses, and court officials, many of whom are our nationals, at risk. We reject any threat and action undertaken to obstruct the court in the exercise of its mandate. Such actions severely impair the ICC's vital work in our common interest in advancing accountability and delivering justice for victims of atrocities, as demonstrated by the unwavering support from both state parties and non-state parties to the ICC. All states must respect and protect the Court's judicial functions and refrain from any coercive measures that would impede the Court's work, impartiality and independence. We stand firmly with the Court, its officials and staff, and all those cooperating with it, including members of civil society. We will ensure business continuity of the Court so that it can fulfill its mandate without interference of any sort. We underline that full cooperation with the Court remains vital, and more than ever, the Court relies on the collective support of all states. As we continue to strive for international justice, we reaffirm our shared commitment to the ICC's essential role in ending impunity, upholding the rule of law, and advancing respect for international law and human rights. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Mexico. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland.

Yes, you may.

Madam President, Mexico reiterates its unwavering support to the International Criminal Court, an institution that represents a pillar of international justice and whose work against impunity hinges on safeguarding its independence and effectiveness. It is to be noted that in spite of increasing pressure put on it, The ICC continues to give results, and in order for this to remain the case, it needs the support of all States Parties, particularly to comply with the arrest warrants issued against 33 people in different parts of the world. Mexico urges all countries to fulfill their obligations to cooperate with the Court in good faith, including those pertaining to the detention and surrender of persons to the Court because that is the only way to maintain its credibility and effectiveness, but above all it is the only way to provide justice for the victims. Madam President, Mexico regrets the unilateral sanctions adopted against the ICC and its officials that aim to hinder or to exert undue influence on its work. We are particularly concerned by the increase in coercive measures against judges and the prosecutor and deputy prosecutors. These measures are incompatible with the purposes of the Rome Statute and with the duty that all states have to respect judicial independence. Today, Mexico reaffirms its rejection of any attempt to politicize international criminal justice or to undermine its functioning. The ICC does not serve special interests. It plays a crucial role to serve the entire international community. Mexico, Madam President, also promotes regional support to the Court through resolutions of the General Assembly of the Organization of American States, and our country will continue to analyze and support strategies to counteract the effects of any measure that try to undermine the Court's work. Madam President, my delegation supports public consultations of the Prosecutor's Office to understand the State's position with regard to the policy projects on the commission of environmental crimes and crimes facilitated by cyber networks. Updating investigation methodologies is a tangible contribution to ways to prosecute international crimes. Mexico has submitted substantive observations to these documents in February and May of this year, on the principle of which we believe the persecution and prosecution of these crimes, and the implication of this for the Prosecutor's work, should be governed. Generally speaking, we can support both drafts, stressing that this should strengthen the implementation of the Rome Statute without expanding it. On the crime of aggression, Mexico has promoted a candid discussion to provide legal certainty and practical utility to the current regime. The goal of the review process should be to treat the crime of aggression like the other crimes under the Rome Statute so as to make the ICC's jurisdiction operational to try this crime. We urge State Parties to study this issue with this goal in mind so that the forthcoming sessions, in those sessions we can achieve tangible results. Ultimately, the key question will be if the Rome Statute can protect states parties in cases of aggression from any other state, be the state a party or not to the Statute, as happens with war crimes, genocide or crimes against humanity. Madam President, Cooperation between the ICC and the United Nations is also of paramount importance. As we have said in prior occasions, we believe that the so-called veto that the permanent members of the Security Council have should not be used to prevent referring situations to the ICC when the majority of council members believe that to be necessary. That is the meaning behind the French-Mexican initiative on restricting the use of the veto when confronted with mass atrocities, which has already been signed up to by 107 states. We also welcome the updated register on acceptance and ratifications of the amendments to the Rome Statute, including those four states who have accepted or ratified the amendments on the crime of aggression. and which to get now we're talking about 49 states who have done so. Finally, I would like to refer to the importance of the universality of the ICC. We regret Hungary's decision to withdraw from the Rome Statute and we invite them to reconsider that decision. This situation highlights the need to redouble our efforts to incentivize the relevance and the permanence of the ICC system. Our commitment to international criminal justice means that we call on the international community, call on us all to work together to strengthen the institutions that help us to combat impunity for the commission of the most heinous crimes, which unfortunately continue to claim thousands of victims around the world. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Mexico. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland.

Madame President. Today, Switzerland reiterates its unwavering support for the International Criminal Court. The ICC is a cornerstone in the fight against impunity for the most serious crimes and also in the pursuit of justice, reconciliation and, ultimately, lasting peace. The Court is a vital pillar of the international justice system. It is an essential component of the multilateral architecture that upholds the rule of law. Given the growing number and intensification of armed conflicts and the upsurge in serious violations of international law, the Court's work is more than ever necessary. Switzerland would like to thank the President of the ICC for her report, which underscores the remarkable work the Court continues to carry out in all of the world's regions, and this while facing unprecedented challenges. Against this difficult backdrop, the Court needs our vocal, active and tangible support so as to be able to continue fulfilling its vital mandate. Madame President, we need to take action, and we need to do so now. Switzerland would like to make the following three points. First, we must stand firm in defending and safeguarding the progress achieved so far in the fight against impunity and as regards the building of an international law-based order. International justice, embodied by the ICC, is an indispensable pillar of such an order. We must protect the Court. It is the world's only permanent international criminal jurisdiction. We must therefore stand together and reject any threats to or measures against the ICC which could undermine its independence, its integrity or impartiality. which could prevent it from discharging its essential mandate or could weaken its foundational principles, including as regards immunities or complementarity. We must reinforce the ICC's jurisdiction. The most serious crimes continue to be committed around the world, and it is our shared responsibility to invest in a robust legal framework that holds perpetrators to account, that provides justice for victims, and opens pathways towards reconciliation and lasting peace. The Court's legitimacy stems from the universality of its statute, as does its strength. Switzerland welcomes Ukraine joining the Rome Statute in January of 2025 as the 125th state party. We regret recent announcements of withdrawals from the Statute and are open to engaging with the states parties concerned. At the same time, Switzerland is encouraged by the fact that a number of other States are moving forward with ratification of the amendments to the Rome Statute. In 2025 alone, Denmark, Timor-Leste, the Seychelles, Andorra, San Marino and Spain ratified the amendments thereto. Furthermore, in July, at a special session of the Assembly of States Parties, the States Parties committed to strengthening the ICC's jurisdiction over the crime of aggression. These are important signals of States Parties' support for the Court. In this spirit, we call on all States who have not yet done so to ratify the Rome Statute and the amendments thereto without imposing any limitations on the Court's jurisdiction. Third, as highlighted in the report, cooperation and support as well as the assistance of States remains essential for the Court's operations. Indeed, without its own enforcement mechanism, the ICC relies on the full cooperation of the international community to discharge its mandate and to deliver justice for victims of the most serious crimes. Hence, we call on all States to fully cooperate with the ICC and to fulfill its requests for assistance. We also encourage close cooperation between the ICC and the United Nations. Madam President, Combating impunity for atrocities and promoting justice to foster sustainable peace and security, these are the shared goals that should unite us. The International Criminal Court is a vital tool that will help us to achieve these ends. Today, let us stand united in support of the aforementioned goals and of the Court itself. I thank you.

I see.

I thank the distinguished representative of Switzerland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea.

Madam President, I would like to begin by thanking President Tomoko Akane for a comprehensive presentation of the report. My delegation also welcomes the important progress achieved by the Court in the fight against impunity for perpetrators of the most serious crimes. There is no doubt that IEC has played a significant role over the past two decades since the entry into the force of Rome Statute and has contributed to the successful implementation of SDGs. There are already signs of growing deterrence effect as a result of IEC's permanent presence. My delegation commends the court for fulfilling its mandate despite facing unprecedented challenges with the support and cooperation of the state parties. The Republic of Korea also reiterate its firm support to the ICC. Madam President, by adopting the Rome Statute, the state has established not just a court, but an entire system of international justice. The architecture of the system spreads responsibilities, whereby ICC carries out judicial work, but enforcement is developed to the state. Therefore, cooperation remains an area of vital importance to the ICC's judicial efficiency, and any lack of cooperation can seriously harm the ICC's functions. The success of our fight against impunity hinges not only on adequate cooperation, but also on universal support from the international community. The Republic of Korea is currently serving as a focal point of ICC's Assembly of State Parties to promote universality of Rome Statute, together with the Netherlands. Universality is about more than expanding territorial scope and the number of people under the ICC jurisdiction. It also plays a crucial role in enhancing the court's legitimacy, since increased ratifications signify broader international support, leading to more rigorous monitoring and oversight by a greater number of states. This, in turn, strengthens ICC's legitimacy and its effectiveness in upholding international justice. The Republic of Korea also would like to underscore the ICC should be represented from a geographically balanced perspective to further strengthen cooperation between ICC and state parties. Enhancing geographical representation will benefit the court by ensuring a diversity of perspectives, which increase creativity and remains crucial to address perception challenges and advance the universality of Rome Statute. The efforts to achieve balanced geographical representation are not only an initiative for individuals underrepresented states, but form the basis for dynamic cooperation with relative state parties from all over the world. We take note of the resolution adopted in ICC special session of the Assembly of State Parties on the review of amendment to the crime of aggression in July 2025. This special session provides a crucial opportunity for the parties to understand the diverse positions among them and keep exploring to reach convergence on the crime of aggression. And it will be a stepping stone to help narrow down the differences, prevent fragmentation, and achieve greater unity and universality. Madam President. The Republic of Korea has always been one of the most committed advocates of ICC. We remain ready and willing to play a consultative role in international communities' collective efforts to overcome challenges and impunity, implement restorative justice for victims, and ensure rule of law. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.

Thank you very much, Madam President. First of all, I'd like to commend the President of the Court, Tomoko Akane, for presenting the report that covers the Court's activity from the 1st of August 2024 to the 31st of July 2025. Madam President, Spain reiterates its unequivocal, unwavering commitment to the ICC as a fundamental pillar of the international criminal justice system and the fight against impunity for the most heinous crimes. Despite the many challenges that the institution is facing, including increasing pressure brought to bear and interferences in its work, as well as the imposition of sanctions against its officials, the ICC has never been as active as it is today. In the period covered by the report, the ICC has made significant steps forward on various cases, including the two convictions pertaining to the situation in the CAR. We'd also like to point out the progress made in terms of redress and protection of victims. We welcome the work of the Appeals Chamber, confirming reparations in the Ongwen case, and the work of the Trust Fund for the Victims as well. We also commend the work of the Pre-Trial Chamber that has issued arrest warrants for situations in Afghanistan, Palestine, and Ukraine. which brings to 33 the number of arrest warrants currently in force. The increasing burden of work reflects the proliferation of conflicts, but also the increasing commitment of the international community to support the work of the ICC. This commitment stems from the belief that accountability is critical if impunity is to be effectively addressed. It's also a critical part of strengthening the trust in the multilateral system based on international law. Madam President, Spain reiterates its unwavering support to the independence, impartiality and integrity of the International Criminal Court, given the measures to sanction the institution, its officials and staff, and those who cooperate with it, and any measure that undermines the exercise of its mandate and could weaken its founding principles. including on the exercise of immunities and the principle of complementarity. Spain's commitment to the ICC is borne out not just in words. Since 2022, we have allocated 20 million euros to the Court in voluntary contributions. We are in the top 10 contributors. This year, we have approved contributions totaling 1.1 million euros. including half a million to the Prosecutor's Office Trust Fund, 300,000 for the Complementarity Trust Fund, and 300,000 euros for the Trust Fund for the Benefit of Victims. In line with our support for multilingualism as a key part of multilateralism, this year we have disbursed 50,000 euros for the translation of the Court's jurisprudence into Spanish. In order for the Court's work to be effective, it requires the cooperation of States Parties. That is why we are pleased to announce the recent entry into force of an agreement between Spain and the ICC on the enforcement of sentences and the recent deposit of our instrument of ratification to the amendments of article 8.2 of the Rome Statute. As further evidence of our commitment to the Court, Spain will shortly present a candidature to be a judge for the period 2027-2036. We call on all States Parties to abide by their commitments undertaken under the Rome Statute. The arrest warrants issued by the Court are mandatory. Ignoring them means breaching obligations entered into and it erodes trust in the international criminal justice system. We encourage States who are not parties but who are committed to international law to join the Rome Statute. In this regard, we welcome Ukraine as the latest State Party. We also deeply regret the decision taken by some States to withdraw from the Rome Statute. Madam President, Spain is committed to the full exercise of the jurisdiction of the ICC. During the special session of the States Assembly, which was held in July in New York, we defended the review to the Kampala Amendments so that the criteria on competence on the crime of aggression be brought into line with those applicable to the other crimes defined under the Rome Statute. We encourage all States Parties to ratify the Kampala Amendments and to participate in the review which is scheduled for 2029. We will continue to promote this review as members of the Group of Friends of the Review to the Rome Statute. We also support the Court devoting more attention and resources to investigating crimes within its competence that affect women and girls in particular. In December 2024, together with various other countries, we sent a letter of referral to the Court's prosecutors for them to consider the worsening situation of women and girls in the context of its investigation into the situation in Afghanistan. We also stressed the ruling in the case of Ali Muhammad al-Abd al-Rahman of 6 October in connection with war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur, in which for the first time there has been a declaration of blame in line with the prosecution of crimes on the grounds of gender. The work of the ICC and the defense of the system that we equipped ourselves with in the context of the Rome Statute is critical. That is why we will continue to work to uphold the independence and integrity of the Court. The ICC is a strong voice for justice and memory of the victims, who deserve not to be forgotten. Thank you.

Muchas gracias. I thank the distinguished representative of Spain. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, France would like to thank President Tomoko Akane for briefing this Assembly on the annual report of the International Criminal Court. The ICC, the keystone of our international criminal justice system, both permanent and universal, embodies our collective determination to fight impunity. As conflicts multiply, with concomitant mass atrocities, as states, including some of the most powerful, challenge the jurisdiction and even the very existence of the Court, we must remain mobilized to ensure the universalization of the Rome Statute, so that the perpetrators of crimes which shock our universal conscience are held to account and pay for their crimes. True to its commitment to justice, France has unswervingly supported the Court so that the ICC can independently and impartially fulfill the mission entrusted to it by States. Madame President, the ICC's annual report this year echoes serious difficulties that the Court is encountering. It's up to us, States Parties to the Rome Statute, it's up to us to mount a response. France would like to set out three of its convictions. First, the Court needs the ongoing support of the entire international community, and this at a time when cooperation is too often found to be wanting. The Rome Statute, of course, is structured around the principles of the Court's independence and complementarity. Having said that, Chapter 9 of the Statute states that the United Nations and States, whether they be parties or not to the Rome Statute, they must support the Court's activities, including through their national jurisdictions. In order to maintain this fundamental balance, France would like to reaffirm the obvious. International cooperation determines how the Court's proceedings unfold, as well as their outcome. We must therefore, each and every one of us, should therefore shoulder our obligations. Second, the Court must be endowed with the financial resources necessary for it to fulfill its mandate. Its workload is going up at every stage of proceedings. This year's report bears this out. As the Assembly of States Parties takes place in a few weeks' time, France will be paying close attention to the budget for 2026, which we hope will be adequate. It's also incumbent on all States Parties to pay their assessed contributions on time, in full, and unconditionally. France has been a constant and reliable financial contributor to the Court. On top of our assessed contribution, we've also made voluntary contributions to the Court. to the Cooperation Fund, to the Trust Fund for the Development of Interns and Visiting Professionals, and to the Trust Fund for Victims, which focuses on reparative justice. A key pillar of the Court's legitimacy, the latter fund has helped to restore the dignity of many victims, over 18,000 just this year. Third, The Court must be protected against threats that seek to hinder the Court's activities. France firmly condemns any attacks on or intimidation of the Court and of its personnel. particular, we cannot allow for the independence of the Court's judges nor its prosecutor, enshrined in Articles 40 and 42 of the Statute, for them to be called into question in any way. France read carefully about the American sanctions against nine of the ICC's judges, including a French judge. These sanctions are an attack on the Court's integrity. They deal a blow to the principle of the independence of justice and they are a or breach vis-a-vis each and every one of the 125 parties to the Rome Statute. France calls on the United States to revoke these sanctions. Having said that, given the concerns of some non-state parties to the Rome Statute, France stands ready to engage in dialogue so that we can offer them a response that upholds the Court's integrity. Madame President. As violence casts off the limitations placed upon it by the law in an increasingly brutal and brazen fashion, we must uphold the imperative to ensure justice is respected. At this crucial juncture for the ICC and international criminal justice, France calls on members of this Assembly to stand firmly by their side. By adopting the draft resolution, France has the honour of co-sponsoring with a large number of countries. I thank you.

Thank you very much. I thank the distinguished representative of France. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein.

Madam President, we have joined the statement read out by Mexico earlier in the debate, and I'm happy to offer some remarks in our national capacity. Madam President, the international International Court continues to be of the highest importance, both for this organization and for the international order. Among the various international legal institutions that are indispensable for upholding the rule of law, the ICC stands out through its central message: nobody is above the law. Its jurisdiction is limited to the crimes that are recognized as the most serious under international law, genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. These crimes are almost invariably committed by persons in positions of power. The crime of aggression is even defined as a leadership crime. It can therefore not come as a surprise that the Court meets with forceful opposition and, at times, hostility. After more than two decades of work, It is certainly no stranger to such opposition, and it has weathered many storms throughout its lifespan. It is no exaggeration, however, to say that the ICC has never been under more pressure than it is today due to sanction measures imposed on some of its most serious figures who are simply carrying out the tasks state parties of the court have mandated them to do. We commend the Court's resilience and the leadership shown by the President and the Registrar in particular. The Court has, under the most trying circumstances, ensured business continuity and the continuation of its judicial work. Madam President, while the Court's resilience is admirable, we all know that it was not created to act alone. The Rome Statute, the most significant achievement in the area of treaty-making in recent decades, has stood the test of time. Its integrity must be protected, while it remains a living document and open to reflect the progressive development of international law. The Statute includes a system of interplay between the Court as an independent judicial institution and state parties who give it the necessary financial diplomatic and practical backing to this end. Trial activity is typically only possible if states execute arrest warrants that the court has issued. Evidence sharing by states and other forms of cooperation are also indispensable to the court's effectiveness. And as we meet today, states are challenged to express support not just in words, but also through practical measures that enable the Court to ensure business continuity in the most difficult of times and to emerge as a stronger institution as a result. Madam President, while our support for the Court should be unconditional, that is no reason for unconditional praise. We are aware of the massive internal challenges the Court is facing and express our full support for the leadership of the President of the Assembly of State Parties in this respect. We may not all always agree with every strategic decision made by the Prosecutor's Office and perhaps not every decision issued by the Court, but that is the nature of all courts and these discussions are not new. What we all must have learned in other contexts, is that a court can only serve its purpose if it can act with genuine independence and without political interference from the outside. States cannot stand up for the independence of the court while trying at the same time to influence its judicial activities. In all circumstances, we must remember that our overriding interest has to be the protection of the court as an independent institution and act accordingly. And certainly we should be able to agree that the court has followed the mandate we have given it and that this is work that is more important now even than it was at the creation of the court 20 years ago. Madam President, just a couple of weeks ago, we celebrated International Law Week. The Court, as it should, played a central role in the discussions throughout those busy days. But we also rightfully commemorated the 80th anniversary of the International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg, which was the beginning of the road that led to this Assembly, to Rome, and the beginning of the international criminal justice movement in the 20th century. One of the conclusions of Nuremberg was that the world needed a permanent international court with jurisdiction over the most serious crimes, a vision that came true only in 1998. There is no better way for us to honor the legacy of Nuremberg than to support the ICC, the institution our predecessors wished they would have had when World War II ended. Madam President, the United Nations and the ICC are separate institutions, but linked by a strong common purpose. The preamble of the Rome Statute not only reaffirms the purpose and principles of the Charter, it also makes it clear that the crimes under its jurisdiction threaten the peace, security and well-being of the world. Perhaps the most important link between the two treaties lies in the provision with respect to the legality of the use of force, the very core of the Charter of the United Nations. The ICC, as the first international court, has the competence to prosecute individuals in leadership positions for their personal criminal responsibility for aggression carried out in manifest violation of the Charter of the United Nations. This mandate given to the court after arduous negotiations should be essential not just to every state who has already decided to join the Rome Statute, but in fact to every member of this assembly who wishes to see an international order based on the UN Charter. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovenia.

Thank you, Madam President. Slovenia aligns itself with the statements of the European Union and the Cross-Regional Group of States in support of the International Criminal Court, delivered by Mexico. We wish to convey the following remarks in our national capacity. Madam President, let me begin by thanking the President of the International Criminal Court for the comprehensive and insightful report. It provides a clear and compelling picture of the Court's achievements, challenges, and the continuing relevance of its mission. 80 years ago, the international community stood together in the aftermath of the Second World War to confront the unimaginable atrocities that had shaken humanity. The Nuremberg Tribunal was established as a bold declaration that such crimes would no longer go unpunished. The International Criminal Court stands today as the legacy of Nuremberg, a vital pillar in the evolution of international justice and accountability. It embodies the enduring principle that individuals, not abstract entities, bear responsibility for the gravest crimes, crimes that threaten international peace and security and inflict unspeakable suffering. Slovenia welcomes the numerous activities and progress of the court during the last reporting period across many situations, including those referred by the Security Council. We recognize that the ICC operates under extremely challenging circumstances, and yet it continues to deliver tangible results. Slovenia wishes to highlight the remarkable scale of victims' participation before the Court. Thousands of victims are engaged in various stages of proceedings. It is almost beyond comprehension that there is a single case that involves the participation of almost 50,000 victims. With the essential support of the Trust Fund for Victims, they benefit from assistance and reparation programs that restore a measure of dignity and relief. Although 2024 saw the highest level of voluntary contributions to the Fund, resources remain insufficient. We therefore call upon all States and stakeholders to continue and to increase their support, ensuring that every victim can access the assistance they need and deserve. Outstanding arrest warrants, 33 in 11 situations, remain a reason for concern. This is a reminder that justice cannot be achieved without full cooperation. Slovenia urges all States to comply fully with the Court and to execute these warrants without delay. The Court's ongoing efforts to strengthen positive complementarity and cooperation with national jurisdictions are commendable. These partnerships are essential for building domestic capacities and reinforcing the rule of law at all levels. Slovenia also values the continued collaboration of the United Nations, other international organizations, and civil society with the ICC. Slovenia welcomes the additional ratifications of the amendments to the Rome Statute and of the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the Court. Madam President, Everything we read in this report leads to a single conclusion: the International Criminal Court is doing what is necessary and what is right. Its work is validated by the cooperation and engagement of States, institutions and individuals committed to a world where accountability prevails over impunity and justice speaks a universal language. the ICC has demonstrated determination to fulfill its mandate independently and impartially, even in the face of threats and attacks. As long as the gravest crimes continue to be committed, the world needs the ICC to investigate and prosecute those responsible. The Court and its officials must be allowed to carry out their judicial functions in accordance with the Rome Statute and the highest legal standards. there can be no place for transactional politics in the pursuit of justice. In conclusion, we express our strong hope and expectation. The first and only permanent international criminal court must continue to receive the support it needs. By supporting the ICC, we strengthen the international rule of law, uphold the protection of basic human rights, and advance the global fight against impunity. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovenia, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland.

President, Ireland aligns with the statement to be delivered on behalf of the European Union and adds the following in a national capacity. Ireland welcomes the report of President Akane to the General Assembly, outlining the important work the International Criminal Court has conducted throughout the reporting period. We thank her and all the officials and staff at the Court for their tireless pursuit of justice under increasingly difficult circumstances. Ireland was honored to welcome President Akane to Dublin in July of this year to underline our commitment to the ICC. President, as a court of last resort, the ICC offers the only remaining hope of justice for many victims around the world who have suffered crimes that shock the conscience of mankind. Despite its vital mandate, or perhaps in some instances because of it, the ICC has had to face a rising level of attacks and threats. We are extremely concerned with the increasingly hostile environment with which the Court and its staff are faced. This includes the growing number of attempts to undermine its judicial independence and to act against those involved in its investigations. In particular, we are deeply concerned by the imposition of sanctions against elected ICC officials and those who engage with the court, including a UN special rapporteur. We also condemn the institution of criminal proceedings against ICC judges and prosecutor in response to carrying out their mandates. We deeply regret these measures as corroding the international legal order on which all states, and particularly small states such as Ireland, depend. Such actions seriously jeopardize the court's investigations, not only in Ukraine and Palestine, but also in situations like Sudan, Venezuela, and Myanmar. While we acknowledge that there may be differences of opinion regarding the scope of the ICC's mandate, We believe that these differences are best resolved through constructive dialogue with the Court and its State Parties, and not through coercive measures. We therefore call for all coercive measures against the ICC and those who work for and with it to be withdrawn, and for the Court to be allowed to continue its independent and impartial work. We also call for all States Parties to the ICC to support the Court in its time of need. President, a critical way that states demonstrate their support is by cooperation with the Court. The Court relies on this cooperation, and we regret to see that the Pre-Trial Chamber findings of non-cooperation were recorded in this report. Ireland calls on all States Parties to adhere to their obligations under the Rome Statute to cooperate with the ICC. We are heartened by the continuing cooperation between the Court and the UN, as highlighted in the report. In addition to the invaluable support that many UN entities provide the ICC in the field, we also express our appreciation for the UN's assistance in facilitating the special session on the crime of aggression held here in New York. However, we believe there is still much scope for improvement in this pivotal relationship, especially between the ICC and the UN Security Council. President, as a state committed to the universality of the Rome Statute, we welcome Ukraine becoming the newest member of the ICC. This confirmation of Ukraine's commitment to international justice illustrates how the Court remains a vital institution in promotion of global accountability and the rule of law. Ireland regrets steps towards withdrawal taken by Hungary during the reporting period, as well as the recent announcements by three other State Parties. The Court conducts its investigations without fear or favour. States should not predicate their support on whether it finds the decisions of the ICC politically favourable, and we urge those States to reconsider their withdrawals from the Court. President, despite the challenges and threats facing the Court today, Ireland is impressed with the achievements outlined in this report, especially with regard to its judicial workload. We note the trial judgment in the Yekatom and Nisana case, the sentencing in the Alhassan case, and the arrest and surrender of Rodrigo Duterte. These developments clearly demonstrate how the ICC is able to advance its work in ending impunity under extremely trying circumstances. An innovative aspect of the work of the ICC is that it places reparative justice at the heart of its mandate. We note the Court's increasing reparations workload, with activities ongoing with respect to five different cases throughout the reporting period, including an appeals decision confirming the Ongwen reparations order. In this regard, we note the vital importance of the Trust Fund for Victims in executing the Court's reparations order. The Trust Fund's work is essential to promote healing among those who have suffered the most appalling atrocities and thereby contributes to lasting peace and stability in the affected regions. As a long-standing contributor to the Trust Fund for Victims, Ireland encourages all States to consider supporting its work. President, to conclude, Ireland remains steadfast in our support for the ICC. We commend the Court for the progress it has made in achieving its mandate over the reporting period and will continue to defend it from threats and attacks. The victims of atrocity across the globe deserve nothing less. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ireland, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia.

Thank you very much, Madam President. First of all, we would like to thank Judge Tomoka Akane and we reiterate our support to her mandate, which began at the beginning of last year. We're also grateful to the Court for providing a report on its activities for the period from July, August last year to the end of July this year. This report reflects the court's commitment to justice and its adaptability in a rapidly changing international context. The court has faced significant challenges over the last year, but it has been able to come up with responses and reaffirm its relevance in the current global context. Proactive policies such as complementarity, emphasizing its important role in achieving justice, are examples of progress that have been made. We have seen that the court has made significant progress For instance, in the context of cooperation with countries, and this includes cooperation with my country in a case that began some 17 years ago, and we have seen mutual support between countries and the court in its work. And this is something that is important for transitional justice. It is important for states to provide due cooperation and support for the court to ensure that justice is administered effectively at the national level. It is important to maintain the prosecutor's office informed about how investigations are going, and this includes in the case of Colombia, including lessons learned. We have made some significant steps forward which show Colombia's determination to investigate the crimes set out in the Rome Statute, as well as the increased capacity of our judicial organizations to move the cases forward. Last year, we presented to the ICC our first report on the investigation and processes. and the crimes committed in the context of the conflict, the last portion of which is to be presented in the last three months of this year. Our Special Jurisdiction for Peace has submitted a second programme of work that is geared towards building on the lessons that have been learnt. We have signed a joint work plan with the prosecutor's office of the ICC. And we have made further progress in investigating the crimes committed in the armed conflict in our country. It has helped us to focus on providing justice to victims of the armed conflict. Last October, the SJP handed out its first rulings on the first case concerning hostage taking during the armed conflict committed by the FARC-EP and case three on forced disappearances that was presented as well. The issuance of these important rulings for peace in Colombia aims to protect victims' rights and to offer legal certainty, and to comply with international human rights standards. They also contribute to helping communities through specific measures geared towards ensuring these crimes are not repeated in the future. These sanctions also make it possible for the perpetrators of these crimes to be appropriately tried and for real benefits to be generated in the affected communities, as well as for social reintegration of those who had been involved with these crimes in the past. It is also important to guarantee the viability of these processes. This all reflects a real landmark in the peace process. It reflects the complementary relations between the ICC's role and the domestic investigative authorities. We are convinced that this cooperation with the Court can be replicated by other countries who are willing to learn from our experience and try to do likewise. We trust that under the leadership of Judge Akane, there will be further institutional strengthening and further efforts made towards trying those who have committed the most heinous crimes, whether that may be in Colombia or elsewhere in the world. We reject any kind of threat or sanctions imposed against the court's officials and judges. That is why we have decided to co-sponsor the resolution that is being tabled today.

I thank the distinguished representative of Colombia, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Myanmar.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, at the outset, Myanmar thanks the Secretary-General for his report and the President of the International Criminal Court for her report. We take note of the notable judicial developments during the reporting period, including the conviction of individuals for war crimes and crimes against humanity, which reaffirms the Court's essential role in advancing justice and accountability for the gravest international crimes. Madam President, the Rome Statute and the International Criminal Court remain central pillars of the contemporary international criminal justice architecture. They embody the collective determinations of states to ensure that perpetrators of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression are held individually accountable, irrespective of status or position. Beyond its foundational legal framework, the Court represents a principled commitment to protecting civilians detering future atrocities and upholding the rule of law as an essential safeguard of human dignity. Its victim-centered approach and the principles of complementarity continue to drive meaningful domestic legal reforms while reinforcing the international community's shared responsibility to end impunity and advance global justice. Madam President, in Myanmar, The military junta has continued committing atrocities against the people of Myanmar, amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. Clear evidences and the facts of such crimes of the military junta are available on the reports of the UN as well. The 2025 annual report of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar reveals that The military's actions constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity as part of a widespread and systematic attack on the civilian populations, including indiscriminate air and artillery attacks on civilians across Chin, Kachin, Kayin, Karen, Rakhine, Shan, Sagaing, and Magwe regions, as well as systematic torture, sexual violence, and unlawful imprisonments of tens of thousands of, including children. The reports of Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar further exposes the junta's ongoing repression and its attempts to manufacture legitimacy through sham elections while recognizing the humanitarian crisis. For over four years since the illegal coup, the military has conducted over 3,700 indiscriminate area attacks resulting in over 4,100 deaths and the destruction of more than 100,000 private properties, including over 1,000 schools, clinics, religious buildings. There have been 452 documented massacres, claiming the lives of over 4,700 civilians, including women, girls, and children. The National Unity Government of Myanmar had anticipated such heinous crimes against the people of Myanmar by the military junta. And accordingly, in order to save lives, protect civilians, and able to deter the junta's further atrocities, bring justice to the victims, and end the impunity, Myanmar submitted on 17 July 2021 an Article 13 declaration to the registrar of the ICC, acknowledging the court's jurisdiction over crimes committed in our territory since 1st July 2002. Through these declarations, the people of Myanmar have high hopes that the court will open a preliminary examination or expand the scope of its current investigation. After over three years, the hope of the people of Myanmar was strengthened by the ICC prosecutor's application to the court in November last year for an arrest warrant against the military hunter chief, Min Aung Hlaing. Yet, almost one year now, we have not heard any noticeable progress from the court on such application by the prosecutor. The people's frustration is growing. We need an effective and timely action from the court. Why I say so? Because the people, especially women, girls and children, are bearing the brunt of the military hunters' heinous crime. This lack of timely action stands in painful contrast to the reality on the ground, where the military hunter is taking civilian lives every minute. every single minute, and waging a relentless campaign of terror against the civilian populations through indiscriminate air and area attacks, mass killing, arbitrary arrests, torture, sexual violence, and deliberate destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and places of worship. These atrocities have displaced millions and devastated entire communities. They are not random acts of violence, but a coordinated policy aimed at subjugating the people of Myanmar through fear and destruction. For millions of people enduring atrocities crimes in real time, meaningful and timely actions of the court is not only expected, but essential. The people of Myanmar, especially the victims of Hunter's atrocity, deserve justice. The perpetrators must be accountable. Moreover, time is really of the essence for the people of Myanmar. Now, the military junta is trying to cover up their serious crimes and evade accountability for its atrocity by organizing a sham election process, aiming to legitimize its unlawful seizure of power. Under the circumstances of junta continuous atrocities, lack of effective area control, continued arbitrary detentions of political leaders, systemic and widespread violations of human rights, collapse of freedom of expression, severe restriction of information, increased intimidation against the people, and living with constant fear, the junta's planned so-called election will be a sham and scammer. It will never be free, fair or inclusive. This deceitful process of the scam elections will create more violence, more instability in Myanmar, and deeper suffering of the people of Myanmar. As such, this so-called elections of the military junta must be categorically rejected. I appeal to the international community and the UN member states to strongly reject this junta's planned sham election. Madam President, in conclusion, as distinguished Prosecutor Benjamin France reminded us, I quote, "There can be no peace without justice, no justice without law, and no law without a court that can decide what is just and lawful," end quote. This principle carries particular urgency for the people of Myanmar. Justice cannot be delayed when atrocities crimes are being carried out every day across my country, Myanmar. The ICC's decision to issue an arrest warrant against the criminal hunter's chief, Mea Hlaing, must be now. Moreover, we call on all member states to stand firmly with the people of Myanmar in our struggle to end military dictatorship, establish a genuine federal democratic union, and secure a peaceful and just future for our nation and our people. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Myanmar, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Luxembourg.

Madame la Presidente,

Madam President, Luxembourg would like to align itself with the statement of the European Union as well as the statement delivered by Mexico on behalf of a group of countries. I would like to add to these with some national remarks. We'd like to thank the President of the International Criminal Court, Judge Tomoko Akane, for being here today and for introducing the annual report on the ICC's activities. The report underscores the fact that the Court is facing a heightened workload, and this across a number of situations and at different stages of proceedings. Against this backdrop, it's important for the ICC to be endowed with adequate resources to allow it to fully discharge its mandate. Aside from financial support, the ICC also needs our political support. This at a time when the Court, its leadership and its personnel are continuing to be subjected to attacks, threats and coercive measures. Luxembourg remains firmly opposed to any attempts to discredit the Court or to hinder its work. We condemn any threats to, attacks on, or political interference in the work of the Court, its personnel, or anyone cooperating with it, including civil society representatives. Luxembourg praises and supports the efforts undertaken by the Court with a view to bolstering its resilience. Since the Statute of Rome was adopted 27 years ago, Luxembourg has been a fervent defender of the Court and the crucial role it plays in combating impunity. The ICC is an indispensable tool which can be used to promote an international rules-based order. Serious crimes affecting the entire international community are still being committed day in, day out. Therefore, today more than ever, it is important to promote and defend the principles enshrined in the Rome Statute. They are the bedrock of international criminal justice. The ICC is of paramount importance in helping to bring to justice the perpetrators of the most serious crimes, as well as in regards to delivering justice to victims, which should be at the centre of our work. It is in this spirit that Luxembourg would like to unswervingly support the Trust Fund for Victims as well as the Special Fund for Witness Relocation. We encourage all States to support the aforementioned funds. Furthermore, we would like to call on all States to fully cooperate with the ICC, including as regards the execution of all arrest warrants issued by the Court. In fulfilling its mission, the Court depends on State cooperation. so as to ensure that the perpetrators of the most serious crimes are held to account. Recent negative developments in this context are deeply regrettable. Madam President, the promotion of criminal justice is vital if we are to ensure and maintain international peace and security. Indeed, peace and justice are indissociable. They are mutually reinforcing. It is only through multilateral cooperation and respect for international law that accountability and justice can be guaranteed. Luxembourg commends the activities of civil society, which played a key role in both the setting up of the court and which also is continuing to defend the ICC's independent, impartial mandate. The universality of the Rome Statute is a priority objective. Luxembourg calls on all States who have not yet done so to ratify the Rome Statute and all of the amendments thereto. This also applies to the Kampala Amendments. And we support the review of these amendments so as to bring the Court's jurisdiction over the crime of aggression into line with its jurisdiction over other crimes listed in its Statute. Madam President, by way of conclusion, I'd like to thank the Netherlands. for introducing the draft resolution on the ICC's report. Luxembourg co-authored the draft resolution and we would like to call on all member states to lend their support to it. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Luxembourg and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guatemala.

Madam President, Guatemala would like to thank Tomoko Akane for presenting the report contained in document A/80/342, which lays out the activities of the ICC during the period 2024-2025. We welcome the fact that the Court has successfully increased its volume of work as concerns its judicial proceedings, both in preliminary issues and in terms of appeals, redress and preliminary reviews. We particularly highlight the fact that more than 18,000 victims have participated in these proceedings. We also welcome the assistance programmes of the Trust Fund for Victims, which directly benefited 19,500 people, of whom 69% were women. This would not have been possible without the significant contributions made by States to the Trust Fund. We would like to thank those States and urge them to continue supporting it. Madam President, Guatemala takes this opportunity to reaffirm its unwavering support to the ICC. This Court plays a critical role within the international justice system, helping States to fight impunity for the most serious crimes of impact for the entire international community. My delegation highlights the importance of the cooperation between the UN and the ICC as a way to strengthen the international criminal justice system and to promote respect for international law, particularly human rights. The report reveals that the UN system has contributed significantly to the Court's work. There is a significant role particularly played by the Office of Legal Affairs as concerns conveying requests for judicial cooperation and coordination therein. We also underscore the role of the Office of the Court to the UN, which continues to facilitate cooperation between both organizations and remains a key contact point for permanent missions. As proof of our commitment to the ICC, we have consistently been one of the main co-sponsors of the draft resolution on the Court's annual report. We regret the fact that in the period being analysed, the Security Council has not been able to interact suitably with the Court and its officials. The Security Council has in several resolutions invited the Prosecutor to address the Council to provide information on the measures taken, such as in the case of Darfur and Libya. We think that this should be done in person, to foster a more substantive and transparent dialogue, but particularly to send a message of unity in the fight for international peace and security. There is a need to strengthen cooperation between the Court and the Council, to promote periodic exchanges and thus to contribute to preventing the most heinous crimes and to combat impunity in the most effective possible way. We also call on States to cooperate with the Court. This cooperation is critical to breathe life into the Court's capacity, so that accountability can be guaranteed and so that victims can be given compensation. Helping the Court's work essentially means reaffirming the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and to safeguard the interests of present and future generations, as the preamble to the Rome Statute says. We need to respect the principle of complementarity as well, and the importance for national jurisdictions to guarantee accountability first and foremost for these serious crimes that have an international impact. We also welcome the various activities that the Prosecutor's Office has carried out in applying its policy of complementarity and cooperation. We are dismayed by the threats and attacks on the integrity, security and independence of the ICC, its judges and staff. International law states that judicial officials and Judges must be able to do their work without any kind of intimidation or undue interference. It is very important, therefore, for the independence and impartiality of judicial institutions to make sure that they are protected. We know that the instrumentalization of justice has major repercussions for the rule of law. That is why we strongly condemn any kind of threat exerted on the Court or its staff. We call on States to respect the immunities and privileges laid out in Article 48 of the Rome Statute. Today, more than ever, we wish to reiterate our firm support to the Court so that this system, which is being increasingly scrutinized and facing significant challenges, can continue to fulfill its duty for the benefit of all humanity.

I thank the distinguished representative of Guatemala, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Thank you very much, Madam President. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is grateful for the presentation of the report on the work of the International Criminal Court. Madam President, Venezuela is strongly committed to the respect, promotion and protection of all human rights and fundamental freedoms. We thus categorically reject the commission of heinous crimes, such as those laid out in the Rome Statute. We also take this opportunity to reaffirm our country's determination to continue to combat impunity for the most serious international crimes, as are crimes against humanity, war crimes, genocide and ethnic cleansing, whose very existence constitutes an attack on international peace and security. From this rostrum, we call on the relevant judicial authorities including the ICC, to ensure that, in the light of the ongoing genocide in Palestine, they fulfill the mandate that was given to them. It is time to meet the expectations that our peoples have, so that through justice we put an end to one of the most painful conflicts of our time, which without doubt will help to uphold the credibility, legitimacy and very existence of the instruments such as the Rome Statute. Madam President, our country has historically supported the fact that states have the overarching duty to ensure that the fundamental rights of their people are upheld and also to ensure that justice is provided for when heinous crimes occur. In this context, the ICC is a complementary entity after the primacy of national jurisdiction has been exhausted. This, ultimately, therefore, is a court that establishes a system of justice for serious international crimes rooted in national tribunals. National authorities, therefore, have the first responsibility, the principal responsibility, to investigate and try the crimes laid out in the Rome Statute and the ICC only gets involved when states are not willing or able to act within their jurisdiction to carry out the relevant national proceedings. It is under this understanding that we categorically reject the so-called Venezuela 1 situation, which does not just seek to ignore national jurisdiction in this domain, but it also aims to manipulate international criminal justice to advance political agendas, as part of the unceasing efforts to destroy the people's sovereignty of those who are trying to give in to the blackmail and pressure of foreign powers. These kind of manoeuvres, which are a clear example of what is known today as lawfare, only weaken the ICC's credibility and integrity, and also the primacy of justice and human rights. Madam President, however, it is striking that the Court's Prosecutor's Office does not act as quickly in other cases. including with the so-called Venezuela 2 case, in which very little or no progress has been made. This is a case that is trying to ascertain criminal responsibility on those who, based on the illegal implementation of more than a thousand unilateral coercive measures, are on a daily basis committing crimes against humanity against the entire people of Venezuela. Giving unequal proceedings and applying double standards, therefore, in these cases pertaining to my country, will do nothing to restore the ICC's credibility. On the contrary, this is particularly concerning at an unprecedented critical time in which international judicial bodies are a fundamental pillar in the balance of the entire international system. That is why we think the time has come for the ICC to make specific steps to show it is not a body that is subordinate to the designs of third parties or those who impose illegal sanctions upon the Court, and that it is not able to act contrary to the letter and spirit of the Rome Statute. Beginning relevant investigations pertaining to the Venezuela II situation, for instance, would be a first step in the right direction. Madam President, the Court and the Prosecutor's Office are well aware of Venezuela's commitments to fulfilling its international obligations, including those on human rights. Even though in some occasions we have had our differences with the prosecutor's office in some of their decisions, this has never prevented us having smooth cooperation and communication with the office. We are committed to the effective administration of justice in our national territory, fulfilling our obligations nationally and internationally. We therefore welcome the technical assistance that the Office provides the Public Prosecutor's Office and other Venezuelan institutions, which has allowed us to strengthen further our own national capacities in this domain. To conclude, we call on States to uphold the independence, objectivity, non-selectivity, impartiality and transparency of the ICC's work. We must work together to put an end to the politicization of justice and to support all efforts to bring the truth to light and to ascertain criminal responsibilities for those who are the genuine perpetrators of international crimes. Impunity cannot be an option for those in Washington and in Tel Aviv for those who are in positions of power and those who abuse those positions to move forward their extermination plans from deeply racist and supremacist visions that have no place in the 21st century. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative.

Of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany.

Madam President, thank you very much. I would first of all like to thank the President of the International Criminal Court for her report and the presentation today. Germany aligns itself with the joint statement delivered by Mexico on behalf of a group of states, and I would like to add the following points in my national capacity. 80 years ago, in August 1945, Allied powers founded the International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg, Germany, to adjudicate Nazi crimes, war crimes, crimes against humanity, crimes against peace, and the crime of aggression. In the main proceedings, during the first nine months of the Nuremberg trials, out of the 24 defendants, 19 were sentenced according to their individual guilt. Three defendants were acquitted, and two cases were dismissed without conviction. But it is this accountability for Nazi atrocities handed down through proceedings and judgments in Nuremberg and other German courts that still play a significant role in defining Germany's view today. Namely, that individual accountability established in criminal proceedings before an independent court is a cornerstone of justice and of peace. And in light of this historical experience, Germany today is a staunch supporter of the International Criminal Court and the Rome Statute as the foundation for the fight against impunity. Because they, the Court and the Statute, embody a collective commitment to end impunity for the most serious crimes, genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and aggression. And by joining the Rome Statute, all of the member states have made a commitment that victims shall receive justice and that perpetrators shall be held accountable. And when the most serious crimes under international law are committed, the international community has a tool to fight impunity. Of course, we know that the International Criminal Court, and with it, the very idea of international criminal justice, is under immense pressure, and we believe that this requires a firm response. Because, Excellencies, upholding the integrity of the Rome Statute is essential to maintain the international legal order and essential in upholding the rule of law. and preserving the rule of law through adherence to the principles in the Rome Statute reinforce peace and security. It reinforces global stability, and accountability deters future violations and gives victims the rightful impression that there is justice. So by supporting the Rome Statute, States demonstrate the conviction that justice and peace go hand in hand, and that's why I believe it is very regrettable that some countries make decisions to withdraw from the Court. Not only that, we do express our deep concern over the recent measures sanctioning the Court. the officials, staff, and those cooperating with the Court, when in fact the Court is carrying out its very mandate under the Rome Statute. But we also believe, and we are ready as Germany to engage here, that we need dialogue. We need dialogue with all states, state parties, as well as non-state parties, and the Court, upholding the Court and having the Court work. requires continuous work on the part of the member states, of course, also on the part of the court itself and its organs. But what we need is dialogue between all of us to reaffirm in the end that international justice has to be part of our agenda every day, and that the court should be able to work efficiently as it is doing, in accordance with highest legal and moral standards, while being globally recognized to promote justice and peace. So, Madam President, in closing, let me reaffirm that Germany remains an unwavering supporter for the independence, the impartiality, and the integrity of the Court, and that we stand firmly not only with the Court as an institution, but also with its officials and staff and those cooperating with it. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Germany, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada.

Madam President, Canada is particularly proud to be taking the floor here before this Assembly so as to reiterate Canada's unswerving commitment to international justice and to the International Criminal Court. The ICC is a judicial organ. It is also a beacon, a beacon in a world where justice prevails over impunity. The very existence of the Court reflects a fundamental truth: peace cannot subsist without justice, and accountability is a cornerstone of security and stability. The Court embodies our collective commitment to an international rules-based order, an order under which the most serious crimes do not just go unpunished when national jurisdictions cannot deliver justice, an order in which the voices of victims show the way towards reconciliation. Madam President, when I served as the Vice President of the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties, I could see firsthand how the Court's work transforms lives and reinforces the international justice architecture. I saw I saw the determination of judges, prosecutors, and the rest of the court's personnel who labor day in, day out to make good on the promise of the Rome Statute. In this role, I, of course, heard criticism of various hues, cost effectiveness and efficiency concerns, questions about jurisdiction and perceived selectivity. I even heard doubts about the court's ability to deliver justice in politically sensitive contexts. Throughout my engagements with partners and stakeholders, one thing was crystal clear for me, and I would like to repeat it before you today. Criticism should be a driver of progress. As States Parties, we can see that the way forward lies in concrete reforms, in constructive dialogue. Dialogue between Member States, but dialogue that also includes States which have not joined the Court. We must continue working together so as to improve the Court's efficiency, all the while defending its impartiality and integrity.

Madam President, having said that, to say it again in English, the importance of dialogue with state parties and with non-state parties to deal with the comments and criticisms that have been made of the Court. I also want to make it very clear that, in our view, in Canada's view, the recent measures that have been taken against the officials of the court undermine the very principles that these measures purport to defend. I want to just make a plea here. When we look at the severity of the sanctions that have been issued against officials of the court, these are sanctions against judges, against prosecutors, against officials of the court, all of whom have lives and have families, and now find themselves in situations where they can't get a bank account, they can't deal with their ordinary business in life, and they're facing tremendous challenges in the work that they do. And I would ask all countries to reflect on the human costs of the sanctions that are being imposed, and also remind everyone these are sanctions that are being placed on people who are simply doing their jobs, jobs that are called for and created by an international statute which over 120 countries around the world have signed. We're also deeply concerned by cybersecurity incidents that are targeting the Court, absolutely unacceptable and yet can be clearly documented. And we welcome the swift response and the ongoing efforts to strengthen the protections that are required. Canada's position in the face of these threats remains very clear and remains steadfast. We are committed to enforcing the decisions and procedures of the court, and we shall continue to do so, despite threats by those who disagree with our position. And we are committed to doing our part in providing ongoing financial support to the court so that it can do its job. And yes, we are going to be doing everything possible to help those who are being impacted by the sanctions themselves. We strongly condemn any measures that aim to weaken the international legal system, and we call on all states to reject them. Let me remind you, as I have from this platform, of the words of the French philosopher Blaise Pascal, who reminded us of this simple fact: that justice without enforcement is impotent, but power without justice is tyranny. And so there is no alternative to pursuing the course of the rule of law. We also think that cooperation with the UN is indispensable, and we welcome the examples of operational assistance that are highlighted in the report of the President that we are discussing today. As reform discussions advance under UN 80, we have to safeguard the complementary roles of the United Nations and the court in the pursuit of global peace and justice. We expect all states parties to adhere to their obligations under the Rome Statute And for those who have not signed the Rome Statute, they're still bound by international law. We will continue to help strengthen the court's capacity and its expertise, including through secondments, frankly, regardless of sanctions. We also remain committed to universalizing the Rome Statute. We regret the recent withdrawal from the statute and the announcements by other states of their intention to do so. We call on those states to reconsider their decision. Let me make the point in another way. We call on those states who are concerned about the decisions of the court, we call on them to work with the member states of the court in dealing with the concerns that they have and trying to find a way for an open and effective dialogue so that the court can once again become clearly on the path towards universality. Madam President, this report's report is clear. This year's report is clear. The demand for justice is growing. With a full docket and over 18,000 victims participating in proceedings, the Court has a unique role in giving voice to survivors and delivering justice where it is most needed. Victims must remain at the heart of everything that the Court does. Canada strongly supports the ongoing process for the revised strategy in relation to victims, and we welcome any further progress in implementing the reparations order in the Onwind case. We commend the Trust Fund for Victims' extensive consultations and inclusive participation mechanism, steps that are vital to ensuring that reparations are not only symbolic but also transformative. As a committed supporter of the Trust Fund, Canada calls on all states to step up and help the Fund to meet its goals. Madam President, on a personal note, if I may say so, at the end of this week, I leave my role as Canada's ambassador to the UN. I look back on the last five years, what we've accomplished together, and at the rapid shifts the world has experienced since I arrived in 2020. There's no doubt at all in my mind that we need to adapt to these changes and find solutions that reflect our new circumstances while staying true to our shared commitments. The UN Charter reminds us of our fundamental objectives. Yes, to maintain international peace and security, but also to ensure the healthy social and economic development of the world with full attention to the rule of law and with full respect for human rights. My experience has reinforced my own personal conviction that the ICC is integral to those objectives and integral to the success of the multilateral system. The ICC is one of those key institutions that can, in fact, close the gap between principles, ideals, and good practice, transforming global norms into real consequences for those who violate them. making international justice an important pillar of collective peace and security. In a time of growing global uncertainty, the International Criminal Court is a safeguard. It is a safeguard against the erosion of fundamental principles of humanity, justice, and the rule of law, principles that must never be compromised. Thank you very much, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Canada, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus.

Madam President, we wish to express our gratitude to President Tomoko Akane for her introduction of the report. Cyprus aligns itself with the statement delivered by Mexico on behalf of a cross-regional group of states, as well as with the statement to be delivered by the EU, and wishes to add some remarks in its national capacity. Cyprus has consistently been a strong and steadfast supporter of the International Criminal Court. Together with other state parties, we remain committed in consolidating the court as an independent and impartial judicial institution of the highest quality. Cyprus also continues to advocate for the universal ratification and full implementation of the Rome Statute and calls on all member states to become party to the Rome Statute. In this regard, we warmly welcome the Statute's entry into force this year following the recent ratification by Ukraine. The ICC has jurisdiction over the crime of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression. These crimes represent grave violations of international law, notably the UN Charter, human rights, and international humanitarian law. The court plays a pivotal role in combating impunity, ensuring accountability, and preventing recurrence of these most serious crimes of international concern. And it is expected to provide justice for these heinous crimes in accordance with the principle of complementarity. Madam President, with respect to the Kampala amendments on the crime of aggression, Cyprus recalls that as a victim of foreign aggression, it was among the first to ratify the amendments, which have been embedded in the jurisdictional regime of the Rome Statute since July 2018. Cyprus welcomes their acceptance or ratification by four new states and urges all state parties to the Rome Statute to do the same in order to enhance the fight against impunity for the crime of aggression. In this regard, Cyprus was proud to have participated in the July 2025 special session of the Assembly of State Parties, aiming at expanding and strengthening the ICC's jurisdiction over the crime of aggression. While the Cambala regime was a landmark achievement, it left a notable accountability gap, particularly in situations where acts of aggression are committed by nationals of non-state parties or on the territory of non-state parties, allowing impunity to persist and undermining the court's credibility. For Cyprus, this issue is far from theoretical. We continue to live with the devastating consequences of foreign aggression and justice has long remained out of reach. Our own experience reinforces our firm conviction that accountability must not depend on the identity of the aggressor or the place where the aggression was committed, but rather on the objective gravity of the act and the fundamental need to uphold the rule of international law. Cyprus, therefore, looks forward to the special session in 2029 to consider the proposed amendment to Article 15 bis of the Rome Statute, as well as the intercessional meeting in 2027 to advance discussions on these issues so that jurisdiction over all four crimes of the Rome Statute will be harmonized. Cyprus further reaffirms its unwavering support for the independence, impartiality, and integrity of the Court, in line with Articles 40 and 42 of the Rome Statute. As noted in the Annual Report, the Court continues to face persistent challenges, including external threats, coercive measures, and other actions that could undermine its capacity to fulfill its mandate. In light of these circumstances, it is crucial that the Court and its staff are able to carry out their essential duties without external influence or undue pressure, ensuring the continued effectiveness of their work in advancing justice and accountability. Cyprus reiterates its commitment to uphold and defend the values and principles enshrined in the Rome Statute and expresses deep regret over any attempts to undermine the Court's independence, integrity and impartiality. We also call on all States to ensure full cooperation with the Court for it to carry out its important mandate. Finally, Madam President, Cyprus reiterates its strong support for the Trust Fund for Victims, an indispensable pillar of the ICC system. Its work in providing reparations, assistance, physical and psychological rehabilitation for the victims of the most heinous crimes has been truly remarkable. As a country that endured war crimes itself, Cyprus knows and understands the importance of an organized and experienced mechanism offering the necessary support for the victims to carry on their lives. Our continuous financial support to the Trust Fund remains assured. At the same time, we urge all State Parties to continue or even enhance their efforts in supporting the Trust Fund. I thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cyprus.

We have heard the last speaker in this debate item for this meeting.

We shall hear the remaining speakers this afternoon at 3 o'clock in this hall.

The meeting is adjourned.