It is with great sadness that the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or the “Court”) has received the news of the passing of Mr Kofi Annan, former Secretary General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Laureate, on 18 August 2018.
Through his illustrious career and remarkable achievements, Mr. Annan made countless contributions to advancing peace, security and well-being of the world, including the fight against impunity for atrocity crimes.
The Court recalls that Mr. Annan played a crucial role as Secretary General of the United Nations when the Rome Statute, the founding treaty of the ICC, was adopted in Rome twenty years ago. “The establishment of the Court is a gift of hope to future generations, and a giant step forward in the march towards universal human rights and the rule of law”, he stated on that occasion. Mr. Annan remained a strong supporter of the ICC and of its mandate after the end of his mandate as Secretary General, both as Chair of The Elders and as founder and chairman of the Kofi Annan Foundation.
Mr. Annan’s passing is a profound loss, but his enduring legacy in the service of humanity must be celebrated and continue to inspire.
The Court presents its sincere condolences to Mr. Annan’s bereaved family and all who are mourning at this time of sorrow.
