ICC ASP side event “Ensuring a Survivor-Centric Approach to Justice and Accountability- from Sudan to Myanmar”
Opening statement by H.E. Rein Tammsaar, Permanent Representative of Estonia
11 December 2023
I would first like to thank the organizers of this meeting that Estonia is honored to co-sponsor, especially the Darfur Women Action Group and Global Justice Center.
It is unfortunately a grim reality that the world is facing the highest number of conflicts since the Second World War and not all these conflicts get the attention they deserve. We are witnessing the use of tactics such as gang rape, sexual slavery, and other forms of sexual violence, woven into the fabric of warfare, torture, and terrorism. Who suffer the most, are the civilians, be it in Sudan, Myanmar or elsewhere.
These egregious acts underscore the urgency for collective action and a steadfast commitment to ensure justice and accountability for the victims/survivors of such heinous crimes. To do this in the most rightful, effective and appropriate way, ensuring a survivor-centered approach, is absolutely key.
Thus, I cannot underline the importance of today’s event. We have gathered to identify opportunities to promote the principles of a survivor-centered approach as well as to explore how it can be applied in conflicts such as those in Sudan and Myanmar.
Though there are as many relevant solutions to this important task as there are challenges, in a time-limited setting like this, I would like to highlight a couple of key elements that I believe both the ICC and Member States need to keep in mind:
First and foremost, we must ensure inclusive policies: Survivors are not just victims. They are also the most powerful advocates on this important matter. Therefore, we must do our utmost to engage with survivors who, despite stigma and discrimination, have the courage to share their stories. We must listen to their words; we must take their calls very seriously and we must engage with their recommendations in our decision-making. They alone understand the harrowing experience of being victims of such heinous crimes. Only they possess the knowledge of how to endure, not just the crimes they endured, but also the psychological imprints left in their wake.
Secondly, capacity-building and local institutions: States bear the primary responsibility to protect their citizens, and this includes protection from, and effective remedies for crimes of conflict-related sexual violence. However, conflict takes a toll on the very institutions that are supposed to deliver justice, protection, and redress. To build public trust and confidence in national institutions, we must make a greater investment in strengthening their capacity to investigate and prosecute sexual violence crimes in a way that is trauma-informed and survivor-centered, as a critical step on the path to peace and reconciliation.
Thirdly, empowering survivors at every juncture: Sexual violence inflicts harm on the physical integrity and agency of survivors. Consequently, the objective should be to empower them at every stage, from accessing services to reporting and testifying in court, to seeking reparations. Addressing basic needs, such as a secure shelter, sustenance, medical care, trauma counseling, and psycho-social support, is essential. Furthermore, assistance in livelihood and reintegration is crucial for fostering the empowerment and resilience of survivors.
We, the States Parties of the Rome Statute, need to ensure that the ICC has adequate resources and mandates to address the different situations.
In conclusion, let us reaffirm our commitment to a survivor-centered approach, recognizing that our actions today will resonate in the lives of those who have endured unimaginable suffering. By working together, we can ensure that justice is not only served but is seen through the eyes of those who have survived, fostering a future where atrocities are prevented, and human rights are upheld.
I thank you.