ICC ASP side event “Advancing Towards a Crimes Against Humanity Convention”
Opening statement by H.E. Rein Tammsaar, Permanent Representative of Estonia
8 December 2023
Dear Excellencies,
I would first like to recognize and thank the organizers of this meeting that Estonia is honored to co-sponsor. I also wish to highlight the valuable work that Mexico and Gambia have done with regard to the relevant resolution and the resumed sessions of the Sixth Committee.
This present meeting marks a momentous occasion as we come together to address a critical gap in the international legal framework – namely the one concerning crimes against humanity.
Although the term “crimes against humanity” is subject of an ongoing debate regarding its origin, and though discussions continue about the varied ways that the Member States interpret this term, I am confident that there is a collective understanding in this room regarding the crucial importance of fighting “crimes against humanity” as they are an extremely grave category of core international offenses.
Unfortunately we still see grave offences committed across the globe. Civilians continue to suffer while perpetrators enjoy impunity. It is our responsibility to do our utmost to end their suffering and to ensure an international society where justice prevails. In order to do so we need a legal framework that punishes and prevents the crimes against humanity. This collective signal would be of major significance to the perpetrators of the past, present and possible future ones.
The International Law Commission’s Draft Articles on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity stand as a beacon, offering us a valuable foundation upon which we can build a treaty that closes the impunity gap. Let us use these Articles!
I want to re-assure that Estonia underlines its unwavering commitment to fostering a thorough and inclusive discussion on this critical matter.
We stand resolute in our dedication to this cause, ready to collaborate with all Member States and other stakeholders in building a world where crimes against humanity are met not only with legal consequences but also with the resounding force of our collective conscience.
Together, let us explore the ongoing efforts to forge a new Treaty – one that complements the Rome Statute, one that reflects our progress, and most importantly, one that stands as a testament to our shared commitment to justice.
Together we can change the world. Together we can fight the crimes against humanity.
I thank you.
