ICC Prosecutor announces deployment of forensics team to Ukraine

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ICC Prosecutor announces deployment of forensics team to Ukraine

ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan QC announces deployment of forensics and investigative team to Ukraine, welcomes strong cooperation with the Government of the Netherlands

I can confirm that today my Office has deployed a team of 42 investigators, forensic experts and support personnel to Ukraine to advance our investigations into crimes falling into the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or the “Court”) and provide support to Ukrainian national authorities. This represents the largest ever single field deployment by my Office since its establishment.

I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the Government of the Netherlands whose strong cooperation in recent weeks has facilitated the secondment of a significant number of Dutch national experts to my Office in support of this mission. This collaboration will significantly enhance the impact of our forensic and investigative actions on the ground. In real terms, it will allow us to collect more testimonial accounts, support the identification of relevant forensic and digital materials and ensure that information and evidence is collected in a manner that strengthens its admissibility in future proceedings before the ICC.

During this mission, my Office will focus on a set of core objectives aimed at accelerating our independent investigations and strengthening synergy of investigative action with national authorities on the ground in Ukraine. Through the deployment of a team of investigators, we will further expand lead development and collect testimonial accounts relevant to military attacks that may constitute Rome Statute crimes. Through close cooperation with the Ukrainian authorities, our forensic experts will map the existing action of national crime scene investigators in order to trace workflows and strengthen chain of custody with respect to hard evidence.

It is essential that the work of all actors seeking to support accountability efforts in Ukraine benefit from effective coordination and communication. In doing so, we will significantly strengthen the impact of our collective work in establishing the truth. Reflecting this, the team deployed by my Office today will also engage with a team of French forensic experts on the ground in Ukraine in order to ensure continuity and continuation of their work with respect to the identification of remains, ballistics analysis and the storage and preservation of forensic evidence. We will also be engaging with teams deployed by other States in Ukraine in order to comprehensively map existing activities and strengthen coordination across all actors. It is my intention to ensure that this collaborative work is then continued through the consistent presence of my Office on the ground.

Since taking up the position of Prosecutor in June last year, I have emphasised that the work of my Office will be founded on the principles of partnership, creativity and of bringing our work closer to those impacted by Rome Statute crimes. The deployment of this team today, supported through excellent cooperation with the Government of the Netherlands and Ukrainian national authorities, represents a model of how these principles can be converted into concrete action. 

These principles are also being implemented across the situations addressed by my Office.  Following our issuance of a Note Verbale on 7 March 2022 requesting support from States Parties, I can confirm that 21 States have now indicated their willingness to second national experts in support of the work of the Office, while 20 States have committed to provide financial contributions. As I have also recently outlined to the United Nations Security Council in my most recent report on the Situation in Libya, I believe that this injection of support will have a tangible impact, multiplying the effectiveness of our activities in all situations addressed by my Office.

Now more than ever we need to show the law in action.  It is essential that we demonstrate to survivors and the families of victims that international law is relevant to their experience, that the ideals of the Rome Statute can be applied meaningfully in order to bring them some measure of solace through the process of justice.

Today represents an example of how we can convert this imperative into results. I look forward to working with all actors, including survivor groups, national authorities, civil society organisations and international partners in order to accelerate this collective work moving forward.

Biblioteca Pacifico Marchesini

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Biblioteca Pacifico Marchesini

By John Dunkelgrün

Sometimes perfectly ordinary events take on a special meaning. Monday, May 16th was such an occasion. The library at the new Italian Embassy was dedicated in honour of Mr. Pacifico Marchesini. Over half a year ago Mr. Marchesini was awarded the title of Righteous among the Nations by Yad Vashem. This is the highest honour the State of Israel can bestow.

In 1942 Mr. Marchesini helped 15 Jews to flee from The Hague to Antwerp, by driving them in an embassy car across the rivers that bisect the country. H.E. Ambassador Giorgio Novello was so deeply touched by that ceremony and the valour of Mr. Marchesini, that he decided to name the new library after him.

Opening of the new library Pacifico Marchesini.

At a small ceremony in the company of an Italian parliamentary delegation, Ms. Laura Garavini, member of the Senate, Mr. Tullio Patassini, and Mr. Francesco Berti, both members of Parliament, and Mr. Giorgio Butini, head of the Italian desk at Europol, the Ambassador spoke of the people who in the darkest days provide rays of light, by helping others while putting themselves in mortal danger.

He emphasized that what Mr. Marchesini had done was more than helping fifteen people flee the Nazi’s. By his deeds, he showed all of us the importance of helping one’s fellow human beings. While being a local employee of the Embassy, Mr. Marchesini had shown himself to be a real diplomat.

H.E. Mr. Modi Moshe Ephraim, Ambassador of Israel.

The Ambassador of Israel, H.E. Mr. Modi Moshe Ephraim, himself the son of a holocaust survivor, mentioned the importance of remembering the people who showed this kind of courage in an age when the last direct witnesses are fast disappearing. It is essential that the names of these people remain visible and encourage the new generations in the fight against discrimination.

The Dutch MP, Mr. Ulysse Ellian, who was born in Kabul to Iranian parents, said that his background made him focus in his parliamentary work on justice, law, and discrimination, and in particular on antisemitism.

Rabbi Marianne van Praag told the story of Rabbi Hillel (110 BCE ~ 10CE !), who famously said that the essence of Judaism is “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.”

Mr. Libero (Bino) Marchesini thanked everyone, especially Ambassador Novello for this exceptional honour shown to his father.

The Ambassador of Italy and John Dunkelgrün.

At the end of the ceremony, your correspondent presented his recent book to Ambassador Novello as his contribution to the new library. A small but important part of the book recounts the activities of Mr. Marchesini.

40 Anniversary of the fallen in the  Malvinas

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40 Anniversary of the fallen in the  Malvinas

On April 2, Argentina commemorates the Day of the Veteran and the Fallen in the Malvinas War. This 2022, marks the 40th anniversary of the South Atlantic conflix.

The Argentinian government has launched worldwide  the “Malvinas’ 40 Years Agenda”, whose main axes are to highlight the recognition and homage of the Argentine people to the fallen, their families and the Malvinas veterans; to deepen the dissemination and visibility of its sovereign rights over the Malvinas Islands, South Georgia, South Sandwich Islands, its maritime rights attached to it and the persistence of a sovereignty dispute -recognized by the United Nations which still remains unresolved today.

The United States and the European Union recognise the de facto United Kingdom administration over the islands and remain neutral over their sovereignty. However, South American countries, Russia  and China support Argentina’s claim over the Malvinas Islands.

Argentina has pursued a persistent diplomatic agenda, regularly raising the issue at every international forum and continue seeking international backup. 

H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzábal, Ambassador of Argentina, during his memorable speech.

H.E. Mr. Mario Ozarzabal, Ambassador of Argentina to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, solemnly inaugurated the Malvinas Argentina’s Room and a commemorative plaque with the motto “Malvinas unites us” at the Argentinian Embassy in The Hague in the presence of diplomats, Dutch officials and two Malvina’s veterans. Argentinian embassies around the globe are carrying out different activities in memory of fallen veterans. Argentinian authorities and members of the civil society organized a full agenda to instill their historic rights over the Malvinas. A popular newspaper, El Clarin, published a daily letter during 40 consecutive days written by a different Argentinian soldier during their time in the islands.  

“It should be recalled that in 1982, at the time of the hostilities in the South Atlantic, Argentina was governed by an illegal and illegitimate military dictatorship, which acted with its back to the Argentine people and departed from Argentina’s traditional commitment to the principle of peaceful settlement of international disputes and, in particular, to the search for a peaceful solution to the question of the Malvinas Islands.” declared ambassador Oyarzabal.

A Malvina’s veteran and one direct descendant of an Argentinian soldier died during combats.

“The 1982 conflict did not alter the nature of the sovereignty dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Malvinas Islands, South Georgia, South Sandwich Islands and the surrounding maritime areas, which remained pending negotiation and settlement.

Thus, during the session of the General Assembly that began in September 1982, resolution 37/9 was adopted, which, recalling resolutions 2065 (XX) and 3160 (XXVIII), requested Argentina and the United Kingdom to resume negotiations in order to find as soon as possible a peaceful solution to the sovereignty dispute, and reaffirmed the need for the two governments to take due account of the interests of the inhabitants of the Malvinas Islands.

Throughout all democratic governments, the Argentine Republic has consistently rejected the use of force and has continuously shown its willingness to engage in bilateral negotiations as a means to reach a peaceful solution to the dispute, in accordance with the resolutions of the General Assembly and international law. Such commitment – as well as the commitment to respect the way of life of the inhabitants of the Islands – is even enshrined at the highest normative level in Argentina in the first transitory clause of the National Constitution and goes hand in hand with the respect for the way of life of the Islanders.

Argentina has repeatedly expressed its willingness to dialogue with the United Kingdom on all issues related to the “Question of the Malvinas Islands” and maintains its firm will to negotiate in order to find a peaceful solution to the sovereignty dispute in accordance with the provisions of the United Nations and multiple pronouncements of the international community.”

In the center of special attention

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In the center of special attention

By Viktor Abaturov, Center for Economic Research and Reforms

Victor Abaturov in his analytical article examines the socio-economic development of the Republic of Karakalpakstan in recent years and the prospects for further transformations within the framework of the New Uzbekistan Development Strategy.

The President of Uzbekistan visited the Republic of Karakalpakstan to get acquainted with the development of the region and the life of the population. It is no coincidence that the head of state paid so much attention to the region.

On the one hand, the Republic of Karakalpakstan has a huge development potential – large natural, mineral and agricultural resources, labor potential, road, transport and engineering and communication networks, industrial infrastructure, convenient geographical location and a considerable territory. But, on the other hand, the republic is in a difficult environmental situation associated with the Aral Sea. Climate change on a global scale creates many negative problems for this region. According to the UNEP Aridity Index, most of the region is classified as an arid zone and therefore highly prone to land degradation. This has an extremely adverse effect on people’s health, incomes and living standards. That is why the issues of socio-economic development of the Republic of Karakalpakstan are in the focus of special attention of the country’s leader.

Last year, for example, Shavkat Mirziyoyev began his election campaign with Karakalpakstan in order to learn more about the situation in this difficult region. During that visit, he ordered the creation of more than 160,000 new jobs in the region in order to solve one of the main problems of the republic – unemployment, and as a result of a promise made during that visit, schools in Karakalpakstan began to provide free lunch for students in grades 1-4 at the expense of the budget. Earlier, on November 11, 2020, a Presidential Decree “On measures for the comprehensive socio-economic development of the Republic of Karakalpakstan in 2020-2023” was issued, which set out the tasks of increasing the economic potential of the region, employment and the welfare of the population, the effective use of opportunities and resources of Karakalpakstan.

This year, attention to the socio-economic development of the Republic of Karakalpakstan has increased significantly. Ahead of this visit, teams of experts visited the region to analyze the situation and identify existing problems, on the basis of which the necessary decisions will be made. Each district of Karakalpakstan is assigned to one of the regions of Uzbekistan. During this trip of the President, for the first time in history, all the khokims of the regions of Uzbekistan were in Karakalpakstan, who came with their teams to develop specific projects to support this region. In particular, the city of Muynak is assigned to the Tashkent region, and the capital of Karakalpakstan, Nukus, to the khokimiyat of the city of Tashkent, which will assist in the development of the drivers of the city of Nukus – the food industry, the building materials industry, and tourism. With this in mind, a program of complex socio-economic development of Nukus in 2022, which provides for the implementation of 10 projects worth 1 billion 361 million soums with the creation of 3 thousand jobs. It should also be noted that this year the campaign “Do Business in Karakalpakstan” is actively carried out in all regions of Uzbekistan. Within the framework of this company, 264 projects have already been developed for a total of $350 million. In total, 811 projects worth $332.1 million should be launched in Karakalpakstan this year, due to the implementation of which more than 14.7 thousand new jobs can be created in the region.

Economic development

The economy has developed especially dynamically in recent years. The region’s gross domestic product (GRP) over the past five years (at the beginning of 2022) increased by 32%, industrial production – by 30.5%, agricultural production increased by 20%, the volume of market services by 75%, the volume of foreign investment increased by 3,810.6 million US dollars, the number of operating enterprises increased by 59%, and the number of new jobs amounted to 127.3 thousand. Particularly noticeable progress in the development of the economy was achieved in 2021, when the economy of the Republic of Karakalpakstan was recovering steadily after the pandemic-related decline in growth rates in 2020. Gross Regional Product in 2021 grew by 7.4% compared to 2020 and reached 26.3 trillion soums, and its per capita volume grew by 6.0% compared to 2020 and amounted to 13.6 million soums. Industry developed dynamically in 2021. Industrial products worth 16621.3 billion soums were produced, which is 7.4% more than in 2020, thanks to which the republic took 8th place among the regions of the country in terms of industrial growth. At the same time, 22.4% of industrial output was produced by small businesses and private entrepreneurship. In 2021, the share of textile products increased to 13.6% (12.6% in 2020), the share of chemical products increased to 61.6% (59.8% in 2020), while the share of food decreased slightly by increasing the share of other sectors- to 14.9% (16.4% in 2020). The volume of industrial production per capita also increased by 17.3% compared to 2020, amounting to 8584.9 thousand soums. According to this indicator, the region already ranks 6th among other regions.

But the most dynamic development in Karakalpakstan last year was in the service sector, which accounted for 8.3 trillion soums, which is 19.3% more than in 2020. The share of services in the structure of the gross regional product of the region reached 33.6%. Moreover, the growth of individual areas of the service sector occurred unevenly. In 2021 relative to 2020, education services increased by 36.3%, financial services by 27.7%, health care services by 22.5%, transportation services by 22.0%, real estate services by 20.9%, repair services for various personal appliances by 19.2%, and personal services (hairdressers and beauty salons) by 15.3%. Here it should also be noted that 43.6% of the volume of services provided in the region in 2021 was the share of Nukus. But, nevertheless, in a number of districts the growth rate of the sphere of services grew rapidly. Thus, in Takhtakupir, Muynak and Buzatau regions, they were 123.5%, 121.1% and 129.5%, respectively. Dynamic growth rates in 2021 were also observed in construction (10.5%), retail trade turnover (8.8%), consumer goods production (6.1%). In agriculture, they were slightly lower – the growth was 3.7% compared to 2020, and the volume of output was 12.3 trillion soums. Investments in fixed capital grew by 2.1%, reaching 7.9 trillion soums. Karakalpakstan’s participation in Uzbekistan’s foreign economic activities is also expanding. Thus, in 2021, the foreign trade turnover of the region was about $657.2 million. The trade balance of the region maintained a positive balance. In 2021, the Republic of Karakalpakstan traded most with China, the share in trade with which was 23.2%, Russia – 18.9%, Turkey – 16.4%, Kazakhstan – 9.7%, Latvia – 5.0% and the Republic of Korea – 4.7%. Exports increased by 15.4% compared to the previous year and amounted to 418.6 million dollars. It is quite indicative that the export of machinery and equipment, i.e. products with high added value, increased sharply, which increased by 7.62 times. At the same time, export of cotton fiber increased by 1.75 times, and goods of chemical industry – by 1.12 times.

In 2021, there was also a significant increase in imports by 35.3%, which reached $238.6 million, due to the need to modernize the economy of Karakalpakstan. This is evidenced by a significant increase in imports of machinery and equipment at 1.71, which accounted for 46% of total imports. Import of services increased by 1.58 times, energy resources by 1.44 times and chemical industry goods by 1.16 times.

“Green Energy”

Due to Karakalpakstan’s negative environmental situation, “green energy” is receiving a lot of attention in its economic growth. As a result, all districts will gradually adopt new renewable energy capacities, including at the home level, in compliance with the corresponding resolution of the head of state. In the Khodjeili district, for example, 48 solar modules with a total capacity of 14.4 kW were installed on the top of a recently constructed multi-story residential building.

Wind energy is also developing in Karakalpakstan, so last year an international tender was announced for the construction of a wind power plant in this republic, in which about 20 foreign companies applied. This tender was won by ACWA Power from Saudi Arabia, which is investing $108 million in this project. The company offered the lowest tariff – 2.56 cents per 1 kilowatt-hour of electricity produced under a public-private partnership. According to the contract, the power plant, located on the territory of Karauzyak and Beruni districts of Karakalpakstan, should be launched in mid-2023. It will generate 360 million kilowatt/hours of environmentally friendly electricity per year. The project provides for the installation of 25 windmills, the construction of a 20-kilometer power transmission line with a capacity of 220 kilowatts, which will be fully integrated into the country’s energy system.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev laid a capsule in the first stone of this station during his current visit to Karakalpakstan. “Three wind farms with a capacity of roughly 1,800 megawatts will be operational in the region in the next five years,” the head of state remarked.

Environmental innovation

The Republic of Karakalpakstan’s innovative development is also a priority under the current program. Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a resolution in July last year titled “On measures to implement the remarkable resolution of the United Nations General Assembly of May 18, 2021” declaring the Aral Sea region a zone of environmental innovation and technology.

According to this decree, the Academy of Young Scientists and the Technopark of Youth are being created in Nukus to support novice scientists and researchers, which will open a laboratory with a genetic bank of plant seeds, a business accelerator and a training center at the International Innovation Center of the Aral Sea Region. It is also planned to introduce electronic mapping and create a database of endangered flora and fauna.

Testing laboratories will be modernized and logistics services will be established for the delivery of samples to the laboratory. It is planned to form a complex center for biochemical analysis in order to determine the bonitet score of saline soils. A comprehensive assessment will serve to identify the health needs of local residents against the backdrop of dramatic environmental and socio-economic changes.

Ecological innovations are already being successfully implemented. So, last year in the Chimbai region, a generator for the production of drinking water from atmospheric air was put into pilot operation, which allows producing from 12 to 30 liters of water per day. This device is adapted to places where drinking water is not available, and its delivery is quite expensive.

Participation in international life

Thanks to the ongoing policy, the participation of the Republic of Karakalpakstan in international life is also growing. Thus, last year the chairmanship of the SCO passed to Uzbekistan. Among the main initiatives put forward by President Mirziyoyev in his capacity as chairmanship is the SCO Green Belt program, which provides for increasing cooperation between the organization’s member countries in the field of environmental protection. And it is very symbolic that the first event under the chairmanship of Uzbekistan in the organization took place in the most environmentally difficult region of the country – in the city of Nukus, where in October last year a meeting of the Council of National Coordinators of the SCO member states was held with the participation of representatives of Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, India and Pakistan.

Improving management

In order to successfully achieve the goals of socio-economic development, the effectiveness of the mechanism for managing these processes is of great importance, which should ensure the coordination of efforts at the republican, regional and local levels. And this year, such a mechanism is being introduced in the Republic of Karakalpakstan.

A new system of interaction between mahallas and authorities is being introduced. “Project groups” have already been created in the region, headed by khokims of districts and cities, which will become a link between ministries and departments, commercial banks and other structures and residents of mahallas. The purpose of the activities of such groups is to identify untapped economic potential, attract interested entrepreneurs to its implementation and organize their interaction with mahallas.

In addition, a situational center for investment projects has been created in the city of Nukus, the activities of which the head of state got acquainted with during his current trip to the region. On the basis of this center, a unified system for the formation, implementation and monitoring of business projects has been formed, which makes it possible to ensure operational interaction between ministries, departments, regions and organizations on the principle of a “single window”. Three groups operate in the center – regional projects, strategic development and operational assistance to entrepreneurs. In addition, the Council of Entrepreneurs has been established in Karakalpakstan, which effectively interacts with project teams in discussing new ideas and proposals, and also actively involves entrepreneurs in their implementation.

In conclusion, it should be said that the special attention shown in recent years to the socio-economic development of the Republic of Karakalpakstan is already bringing very significant positive results. The Republic has significantly improved its positions in a number of important indicators. This year, a mechanism is being created to ensure the consolidation of efforts of all levels of government and all regions of Uzbekistan to support the development of this region. And we can confidently say that these efforts will not be fruitless, and the most difficult region in terms of its environmental conditions will be able to achieve impressive results in its development this year.

ICC Prosecutor underlines commitment to support the Special Criminal Court of the Central African Republic

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ICC Prosecutor underlines commitment to support the Special Criminal Court of the Central African Republic

ICC Prosecutor underlines commitment to support the Special Criminal Court of the Central African Republic following address by Deputy Prosecutor, Mr Mame Mandiaye Niang at opening of first trial in Bangui

Following the opening of the first trial before the Special Criminal Court of the Central African Republic (“SCC”), the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (“ICC”), Mr Karim A. A. Khan QC strongly welcomed this landmark moment and underlined the commitment of his Office to actively support the work of the SCC in line with the principle of complementarity.

This followed the visit by Mr Mame Mandiaye Niang, ICC Deputy Prosecutor to Bangui, Central African Republic (“CAR”) during which he took part on behalf of the Prosecutor in the opening ceremony of the first trial at the SCC.

Emphasising the importance he attached to the participation of his Office at the opening ceremony of the proceedings of the SCC at this important moment, Prosecutor Khan underlined his commitment to strengthening cooperation between the ICC Office of the Prosecutor (“OTP”) and SCC: “I have been clear since I took up office one year ago. Justice is best delivered closest to those impacted by crimes. We should support all efforts that aim to engage with and empower communities, that allow them to participate more directly in the process of justice. The SCC is an excellent example of how this partnership between the international community, national authorities and local actors can result in tangible steps towards this goal.”

During his visit to Bangui, Deputy Prosecutor Niang was received by Mr Arnaud Djoubaye-Abazene, Minister of State for Justice, the Promotion of Human Rights, and Good Governance of the CAR, who reiterated the commitment and willingness of the Government to supporting the SCC in carrying out its mandate, and to strengthening cooperation with the OTP in the conduct of its investigative and prosecutorial activities.

In his remarks to the SCC, Deputy Prosecutor Niang emphasised the historic and symbolic nature of this first trial for crimes under the jurisdiction of the SCC, also noting the hopes it has raised. He emphasised: “[t]oday’s opening of the first trial of the Special Criminal Court, here in the CAR — the very country where the crimes under international law alleged by the Special Prosecutor are supposed to have been committed — is a high point in the symbolic distribution of justice. But beyond the symbols, it is also a crucial meeting with all those victims and survivors of unspeakable atrocities, many of whom were losing hope of seeing justice done in their lifetimes.”

Deputy Prosecutor Niang also congratulated the national authorities of CAR and noted that the fight against impunity and the strengthening of the rule of law are essential components in the reconstruction and reconciliation process in the country. He stressed: “[t]his essential justice is first and foremost the justice of proximity: one which is rendered in the immediate environment of the alleged perpetrators of the crimes and the victims. This is what the principle of complementarity, an essential pillar of the Rome Statute, which the Prosecutor Karim Khan, has been forcefully reminding us of since he took office in June 2021, is all about […] The Court must remain a mechanism of last resort, and The Hague a city of last resort.”

Deputy Prosecutor Niang met Mr Michel Landry Louanga, President of the SCC, its Vice-President, Mr Herizo Rado Randriamanantena, and the SCC Registrar, Mr Dieudonné Senego, who expressed their appreciation for the support of the OTP and recalled the importance of cooperation in order to mutually reinforce efforts to fight impunity for crimes committed in the CAR.

He encouraged the SCC in its efforts and recalled the availability of the OTP to strengthen cooperation and synergy between the two institutions. He said that the OTP would seek to facilitate the provision of effective support to national courts wherever possible. Where national courts did not have the capacity to act, whether for security or other reasons, the ICC would be there, he said. And where action by the ICC was mandated, Prosecutor Khan wanted to explore all possibilities of having a presence in the country, including holding hearings outside of The Hague.  The Deputy Prosecutor stressed that: “[it]t is this synergy and these combined actions that make the fight against impunity for crimes under international law effective and that make justice relevant to the most affected communities.”

Mr Niang also held meetings with Ambassador Douglas Carpenter, Head of Delegation of the European Union to CAR; Ms Patricia Mahoney, Ambassador of the United States of America to CAR, and Mr Jean-Marc Grosgurin, Ambassador of the Republic of France to CAR. Discussions focused on the necessary support and backing of partners in the fight against impunity in the CAR and continued cooperation with the ICC.

Finally, Deputy Prosecutor Niang recalled the importance of the support provided to the SCC by all partners, noting in particular, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and the United Nations Development Programme. Deputy Prosecutor Niang also recognised the crucial work of non-governmental organisations working for victims in the delivery of justice by the SCC.

Takedown of online investment fraud

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Takedown of online investment fraud

Takedown of online investment fraud in Albania: 15 arrests

With support from Eurojust, authorities in Albania and Germany have taken down a fraudulent online investment platform that defrauded victims, including many Germans, of at least several million euros. During a recent action day, 15 suspects were arrested and eight places were searched in Tirana, Albania.

The suspects used companies running call centres in Albania. Beginning in 2018, the perpetrators managed two fraudulent electronic platforms, ‘BrokerZ’ and ‘Globalix’, which lured victims in Germany into investing in non-existent financial products that promised large benefits. Among those arrested is one of the alleged leaders of the scam.

During the searches in Albania, servers, various IT equipment, documents and other related materials were seized. A German prosecutor as well as law enforcement officers from Germany participated in the action day in Albania. Eurojust assisted in the coordination of the cross-border judicial cooperation in this case, including support to execute the request for Mutual Legal Assistance from Germany to Albania.

Albania is one of the ten third countries that currently have Liaison Prosecutors at Eurojust. In addition to Albania, these countries are Georgia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United States and the United Kingdom.

The following authorities took part in the operation:

  • Albania: Special Prosecution Office against Corruption and Organized Crime of Tirana; Unit “C” of the General Directorate of Albanian State Police
  • Germany: Bavarian Central Office for the Prosecution of Cybercrime at the Bamberg General PPO; Criminal Investigation Departments Bayreuth and Oberfranken

DiploSalsa – A Salsa Dance Workshop, Sponsored by the Embassy of Cuba

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DiploSalsa – A Salsa Dance Workshop, Sponsored by the Embassy of Cuba

“Opened to all diplomats – regardless of fitness level, dancing skills, or the presence of a partner”. This was the message conveyed by the invitation sent by the Embassy of Cuba and Diplomat Magazine to diplomats credited to the Netherlands, tempting all of them to get out again after the last lockdown and get into the music and dance of this charming Caribbean country.

With the expert Cuban salsa teacher, Rafael Cala, diplomats came to share the passion for the Cuban dance in a relaxed and fun atmosphere throughout four weeks.

Cuban Salsa Workshop

During the last day of the course, in the company of some delicious mojitos and tasty Cuban food, H.E. Ms. Anet Pino Rivero, Ambassador of Cuba, awarded a certificate of accomplishment to each participant. This was a stimulant and joyful activity that we plan to repeat next year. We wish to thank all the participants for their energy, as well as the Embassy of Cuba for the organization. 

Haarlem Diplomats Walking Tour

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Haarlem Diplomats Walking Tour

Diplomat Magazine organised a friendly walk throughout Haarlem. The walking tour – organized for diplomats only – highlighted some of the most exciting sites to be visited in this beautiful city, which is unfortunately too often overshadowed by Amsterdam.

Haarlem, an incredibly authentic ‘Hollandse’ city, welcomed the group with a sunny day – the perfect whether for a walking tour.

A large number of diplomats – from Switzerland to Canada, from Rwanda to Cuba, from Azerbaijan to Sweden, from Peru to Germany, from Ghana to Vietnam and more – enjoyed this beautiful city, with its canals, windmills and 17th-century narrow houses with huge windows.

They learned about Haarlem’s history and its absolutely beautiful and peaceful hidden gardens.

Historian Johannes Enschedé and H.E. Mr. Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe , Ambassador of Rwanda.

Besides admiring the beauty of Haarlem, the group was privileged to benefit from the expertise of two unique tour guides, the expert Sherman McGrew, as well as Mr. Johannes Enschedé, one of the most notorious lawyers and historians from Haarlem, and a direct descendant of Izaak Enschedé, the first printer of Dutch bank notes in 1703 and of the local newspaper “Opregte Haarlemsche Courant” in 1737 (one of the oldest newspapers in the world).

Mr. Enschedé accompanied the group from Haarlem Central Station through all the key places in the city, explaining details about historical buildings, churches, statues, plazas, as well as about the Enschedé Museum, a part of the Dutch history and of his own too. We will never thank enough Mr. Enschedé for the privilege of his personal engagement with our group of diplomats. 

The tour started at Leonardo Royal Hotel at 11:00, with the group getting into the bus at the parking lot of the hotel. The walking tour was about four hours long, including time to shops at the market in the center, as well as to enjoy good food and drinks to cool down at the end of the day.

Conference to mark the ICC’s 20th anniversary

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Conference to mark the ICC’s 20th anniversary

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is pleased to announce the conference “International Criminal Court at 20: Reflections on the Past, Present and the Future”, taking place on Friday, 1 July 2022, at the World Forum in The Hague, the Netherlands. The conference will be webcast live in English, French and Spanish on the ICC’s YouTube channel.

The conference will be an occasion to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the International Criminal Court as one of the permanent pillars of the international legal system. The entry into force, on 1 July 2002, of the ICC’s founding treaty, the Rome Statute, enabled the commencement of the Court’s operations under its mandate aimed at ensuring accountability for the gravest crimes under international law, contributing to their prevention, and providing justice to victims.

The conference will start with a keynote speech by the Chair of Rome Conference and first ICC President, H.E. Mr. Philippe Kirsch, followed by three substantive panels on various aspects on the Court’s work. Speakers will include the President, Prosecutor and Registrar of the ICC, the President of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the ICC’s Trust Fund for Victims, the President of the International Criminal Court Bar Association, as well leading academics, civil society experts and practitioners.

The conference will allow for in-depth discussions on the different aspects of the Court’s concrete operations, from the earliest reports of alleged crimes to final judgments and the reparation of victims. It will also be an occasion for reflections on how well the ICC has met expectations, as well as what main trends can be discerned for the further development of the international criminal justice system going forward.

While in-person participation at the conference is by invitation only, virtual attendance is open to all interested persons.

The International Criminal Court would like to express its appreciation to the European Commission as well as to the Embassy of the French Republic in The Netherlands and the Municipality of The Hague for the financial support provided for this conference.

Operation against drug traffickers in Italy, Spain and Netherlands: 24 arrests

Diplomat Magazine
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Operation against drug traffickers in Italy, Spain and Netherlands: 24 arrests

Authorities in Italy, Spain and the Netherlands  yesterday conducted an operation against a major drug trafficking network, which allegedly used the art trade in the Netherlands to launder the profits of its illegal business. Eurojust coordinated and supported the action, which led to the arrest of 24 suspects.

Investigations into the organised crime group (OCG) started in 2019 when the Italian authorities unravelled a local drug trafficking network, run by two Milanese restaurant owners. This investigation led to links with a larger network of traffickers, who never met in person and took nicknames based on fictional characters, using encrypted communication tools.

Thanks to information from the French authorities, following the successful – and Eurojust-supported – EncroChat and SkyECC operations, the structure of the OCG could be laid bare. The network ran a multitude of large-scale drug trafficking operations, trading in cocaine, cannabis and ketamine, with the Netherlands as one of its main hubs.

Cocaine was shipped to Dutch ports from Latin America and transported to Italy using articulated lorries and cars with hidden compartments. Additionally, the OCG was involved in the ketamine trade from Lithuania, which was also run via the Netherlands. Spain was used as a trading route for the smuggling of cannabis from North Africa.

As of 2020, authorities both in the Netherlands and Italy have managed to intercept large quantities of drugs. Several arrests of other OCG members have already taken place over the past months, with the action day as the culminating point of the investigations so far.

During the action day, a total of 47 locations were searched, including an art gallery in Amsterdam. Furthermore, bank accounts that were allegedly used for money laundering purposes have been frozen by authorities in the Netherlands.

Overall, an estimated EUR 150.000 in cash was seized, as well as over 150 kilos of various types of illicit drugs.

Eurojust supported the operation by organising five preparatory coordination meetings and assisting with the execution of European Investigation Orders and European Arrest Warrants. The Agency also enabled the cooperation of the various authorities involved during the day.

The operation was carried out and supported by:

  • Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Office (PPO) Milan; State Police Milan (Polizia di Stato, Questura di Milano)
  • Spain: National Police (Policía Nacional)
  • The Netherlands: International Legal Assistance Centre (IRC) Amsterdam; National Coordination Centre for International Legal Assistance (LIRC); Regional Investigation Service (DRR) Amsterdam Police
  • France: Interregional Specialised Jurisdiction (JIRS) Lille; National Jurisdiction Against Organised Crime (JUNALCO) Paris; Gendarmerie Nationale C3N; National Judicial Police (DCPJ)
  • Lithuania: Prosecutor General’s Office; Lithuanian Criminal Police Bureau
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