USA’s Ambassador Nathalie Rayes presents credentials in Croatia

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USA’s Ambassador Nathalie Rayes presents credentials in Croatia

Thursday, 25 January 2024, Zagreb, Republic of Croatia: President of Croatia, Zoran Milanović received the US top diplomatic envoy Nathalie Rayes for a ceremony wherein the latter presented her letters of credence issued by US President Joe Biden accrediting her as ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the United States in the Repubic of Croatia. She is seconded in the embassy by Deputy Chief of Mission Mark Fleming. 

Ambassador Rayes had been confirmed by the US Senate back on 6 December 2023. 

For the accreditation ceremony which transpired at Pantovčak (the Presidential Palace), Ambassador Rayes was accompanied by her husband Tarek Samad, the her sons Julian Samad and Alexander Samad, Deputy Ambassador Mark Fleming, the Military Envoy of Defense Brigadier Scott McLearn and the Press and Culture Adviser Danielle Harms.

Ambassador Rayes and her family – Ured predsjednika Republike Hrvatske, Marko Beljan.

President Milanović was accompanied by his advisor for Foreign and European policy Neven Pelicarić, the Director of the Directorate for Political Affairs from the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs Petar Mihatov and Secretary of the Cabinet for Foreign and European Policy of the Office of the President of the Republic Ivan Mutavdžić.

According to the US State Department, Nathalie Rayes holds a distinguished career in public service as a leader, consensus builder, and advocate. Rayes was president and CEO of Latino Victory. Before joining Latino Victory, Rayes served as vice president of public affairs for Grupo Salinas in the United States and executive director of Fundación Azteca America. Earlier in her career, she served as deputy chief of staff for Los Angeles Mayor James K. Hahn, where she managed the Office of Intergovernmental Relations, International Trade, and Protocol, established Los Angeles’ first Office of Immigrant Affairs, and formed sister cities partnerships with San Salvador, El Salvador, Beirut, Lebanon, as well as Ischia, Italy. In 1998, she was a State Department fellow in the U.S. Embassy in Cairo in the economic political section.

Rayes has served as President Biden’s appointee to the board of the United States Institute of Peace. She also served on the board of directors of the Hispanic Federation, chairs the Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) Binational Advisory Group, and is an advisory board member of the Aspen Institute Latinos and Society Program. Rayes served as President Obama’s appointee to the board of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars from 2014-2020. In 2015 she was recognized in the Huffington Post’s “40 Under 40 Latinos in Foreign Policy.”

Rayes holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology cum laude and a Master’s in Public Policy with concentrations in International Relations and Education from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is the author of numerous publications and speaks fluent English, Spanish and conversational Arabic.

For further information 

US Embassy in Croatia: https://hr.usembassy.gov

Croatian Presidency: https://www.predsjednik.hr/vijesti/veleposlanica-sjedinjenih-americkih-drzava-predala-je-vjerodajnice-predsjedniku-republike/

Printed Magazine – 2023

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Printed Magazine – 2023

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Violation of export sanctions to Russia: three arrests

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Violation of export sanctions to Russia: three arrests

Support to Dutch action

Eurojust and Europol have supported a coordinated action of the Dutch, German, Latvian, Lithuanian and Canadian authorities against the alleged violation of export sanctions to Russia.

During a joint action day, three suspects were arrested and 14 places searched in view of investigations into the illegal export of technological and laboratory equipment, which could be used for military purposes.

Such exports are illegal due to the EU-wide sanctions, which were imposed after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine.

The arrested persons are suspected of being part of an international smuggling network. The physical and digital administration of a Dutch-registered enterprise has been seized, in addition to the enterprise’s bank account and communication tools.

Investigations into the case were initiated at the end of 2023 by the Dutch authorities and led to the uncovering of a web of enterprises, which were used to circumvent the ban on exports to Russia. These enterprises were centred around a Dutch-registered trading company, which was set up in 2017 for the import, export and sales of electro-technical and laboratory equipment, among other goods.

Two of the suspects were administrators of the main trading company. The third suspect is an employee of an external contractor, who is alleged to have been aware of the violation of the export ban. The trading company in question is now run by an administrator in Russia, who is also the sole shareholder.

Eurojust enabled the cross-border judicial cooperation and organised a coordination meeting to prepare for the joint actions, at request of the Dutch authorities. It also set up a coordination centre during the action day, which was held on 9 January.

Europol has been supporting the investigation by providing analytical support, as well as conducting cross-checks on the gathered data.

The actions were carried out at the request of and were supported by the following authorities:

  • The Netherlands: National Prosecution Office for Serious Fraud, Environmental Crime and Asset Confiscation (Functioneel Parket); Investigation Service for Financial and Tax Crime (Fiscale Inlichtingen- en Opsporingsdienst, FIOD)
  • Germany: Public Prosecutor`s Offices of Berlin,  Düsseldorf, Hamburg and Krefeld; Customs Investigation Service  (ZFD) with offices in Berlin, Essen and Hamburg
  • Latvia: Prosecutor General’s Office; State Security Service
  • Lithuania: Vilnius Regional Public Prosecutor’s Office, Customs Criminal Service

Homage for Wolfgang Schäuble in presence of French and German presidents

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Homage for Wolfgang Schäuble in presence of French and German presidents

Monday, 22 January 2024, Berlin, Federal Parliament, Germany: In the plenary hall of the Bundestag took place a homage to the deceased politician and federal speaker of federal parliament Wolfgang Schäuble (1942-2023) who passed on 26 December 2023 at the age of 81 in his native state of Baden-Württemberg, southern Germany. 

The homage was attended by German Federal President Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his spouse Elke Büdenbender, the Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the President pro tempore of the Federal Council (Bundesrat) Manuela Schwesig (Premier of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania), the President of the Constitutional Court Prof. Dr. Stephan Harbarth as well as the French President Emmanuel Macron accompanied by the French Ambassador in Germany, François Delattre. 

The eulogy transpired on the 61st anniversary of the signing of the Élysée Treaty as well as the fifth anniversary for the Treaty of Aachen, both landmarks of Franco-German friendship and cooperation. 

Macron impressed and surprised mourners in the German parliament by delivering a encomium for Wolfgang Schäuble predominantly in the German language. President Macron’s panegyric was the first allocution by a French head of state since Charles de Gaulle addressed an audience in that language back in 1962 in Ludwigsburg. 

For further information 

German Federal Presidency: 

https://www.bundespraesident.de/SharedDocs/Berichte/DE/Frank-Walter-Steinmeier/2024/01/240122-Trauerstaatsakt-Schaeuble.html

French Presidency: 

https://www.elysee.fr/emmanuel-macron/2024/01/22/hommage-a-wolfgang-schauble

A Gastronomic Extravaganza: Bangladesh Food Festival in The Hague

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A Gastronomic Extravaganza: Bangladesh Food Festival in The Hague

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other as the Embassy of Bangladesh, in collaboration with the Leonardo Royal Hotel and Diplomat Magazine, presents the much-anticipated Bangladesh Food Festival on March 7 and 8 in The Hague. This event promises to be a celebration of authentic Bangladeshi cuisine, bringing together the talents of two Bangladeshi chefs and the skilled team at Leonardo Royal Hotel, under the expert guidance of Chef Sido de Brabander.

Meet the Culinary Maestros:

Chef Sayat Chowdhury.

Chef Sayat Chowdhury:
Originally hailing from southern Bangladesh, Chef Sayat Chowdhury embarked on a culinary journey that led him to the Netherlands seven years ago. Despite his academic pursuits in New Media & Digital Cultures at the University of Amsterdam, Sayat’s passion for food and his desire to connect with people through the art of cooking brought him into the professional kitchen. With experiences at renowned establishments such as Restaurant Arles, Restaurant Elkaar, and Foer, Chef Sayat now holds the position of chef de partie at REM in Amsterdam. His unique blend of traditional flavors and contemporary techniques promises to add a distinctive touch to the Bangladesh Food Festival.

Chef Sheikh Emdadul Haque.

Chef Sheikh Emdadul Haque:
With eight years of culinary expertise at the Bangladesh Embassy in The Hague, Chef Sheikh Emdadul Haque is a seasoned chef known for his dedication and innovative approach to traditional Bangladeshi cuisine. Prior to joining the Embassy, Chef Emdadul spent four years as a Chef at the Bangladesh Embassy in Tashkent. Hailing from southern Bangladesh, renowned for its inland sweet-water fish and the famed black tiger shrimp, Chef Emdadul infuses his dishes with a passion for traditional spices and a love for culinary experimentation. His commitment to blending flavors promises a gastronomic experience that is both unique and memorable.

A Symphony of Flavors:

Bangladeshi cuisine is a revelation of spices, a sensual walk with delicate aromas, and a splendor of colors. From traditional spices to contemporary twists, the food of Bangladesh is a harmonious blend of rich culinary traditions. The forthcoming food festival is an opportunity to savor the unique and fabulous flavors that define Bangladeshi gastronomy.

Bangladesh Food Festival

Culinary Rendezvous:

The Bangladesh Food Festival is not just an event; it is an authentic experience not to be missed. Join us in The Hague on March 7 and 8 for a captivating journey through the diverse and delightful world of Bangladeshi cuisine. Under the expert hands of Chef Sayat Chowdhury and Chef Sheikh Emdadul Haque and the collaboration of Chef Sido de Brabander and his team, the festival promises to be a feast for the senses—a culinary rendezvous celebrating the best of Bangladesh’s culinary heritage.

Don’t miss the chance to indulge in this gastronomic extravaganza and explore the magic that happens when traditional Bangladeshi flavors meet contemporary culinary innovation. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening of exquisite dishes, delightful aromas, and a celebration of the culinary arts at the Bangladesh Food Festival in The Hague!

Reservations: Leonardo Royal Hotel +31 70 352 5161 or info.denhaag@leosinternationalflavors.nl

Business Seminar Strengthens India-Netherlands Collaboration in Innovation and Emerging Technologies

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Business Seminar Strengthens India-Netherlands Collaboration in Innovation and Emerging Technologies

The Embassy of India in The Hague successfully organized a Business Seminar on “Cooperation in Innovation & Key Emerging Technologies” on January 11, 2024. The event aimed at strengthen trade, investment, and business collaborations between India and the Netherlands, attracting over 125 participants, including government representatives, business leaders, academicians, entrepreneurs, and innovators.

The seminar, while focusing on the overall promotion of business and investment, placed special emphasis on how innovation and new technologies could drive bilateral trade and investment, offering significant opportunities for enhanced collaboration between the two nations.

Fireside chat with Dr. Gokhale and Mr. Erwin Nijsse (Director General Business & Innovation, Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs & Climate Policy), moderated by Mr. Suneet Khanna (VP, Fractal Analytics).

Ambassador of India to the Netherlands, H.E. Mrs. Reenat Sandhu, in her opening remarks, highlighted India’s achievements in 2023, including the successful conclusion of India’s G20 Presidency and the Chandrayaan-3 moon landing. She underscored India’s exceptional economic growth as the world’s 5th largest economy, emphasizing the vast opportunities for business tie-ups in existing sectors such as Water, Agriculture, and Health, as well as emerging areas like AI, Semiconductors, and Green Hydrogen.

The Ambassador encouraged Dutch companies to explore and expand their ventures in the dynamic Indian market.

Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India

Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, provided insights into India’s Biotech Sector, highlighting its emergence as a hub of innovation and growth. He emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship development activities for fostering innovation and enterprise, suggesting ways to stimulate long-term research collaborations between India and the Netherlands. Dr. Gokhale, said “Technology partnerships and tech transfers can bring R&D in India up to speed with global developments.”

Director General Business & Innovation, Mr. Erwin Nijsse, highlighted the strong synergies between India and the Netherlands in trade and investment. He elaborated on existing cooperation in the sectors of Water, Agriculture, and Health, emphasizing technology partnerships to address societal challenges. Mr. Nijsse expressed optimism about the future potential of the India-Netherlands partnership, especially in new technologies and innovation.

Ms. Hilde van der Meer, Commissioner, Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA)

The seminar also featured speakers from the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) and Impact Hydrogen. Ms. Hilde van der Meer of NFIA focused on addressing global challenges collaboratively; he observed: “solving Global challenges together and move  from volume to value”.

Ms. Nienke Homan, CEO of Impact Hydrogen, shared her journey towards creating a Hydrogen Valley in Northern Netherlands, highlighting the potential for connecting countries and companies through Green Hydrogen networks.

Ms. Nienke Homan, CEO Impact Hydrogen & Chair Royal VNCI, former Deputy Minister Energy in the Province of Groningen.

A fireside chat with Dr. Gokhale and Mr. Nijsse, moderated by Mr. Suneet Khanna, provided insights into existing synergies, past learnings, potential domains, tech incubators, tech funding, and Artificial Intelligence-related developments. Private sector representatives from startups ‘Keystonemab,’ ‘Eindhoven Medical Robotics,’ and ‘Holofil’ shared their experiences of doing business in India and the Netherlands.

Mr. Satya Pinisetty, First Secretary (Economic & Commerce), Embassy of India in The Hague.

Companies attending the seminar praised the fruitful discussions and networking opportunities provided by the event. Ambassador Sandhu observed: “India, with its rich history, diverse culture, macroeconomic and financial stability, and rapidly expanding economy, presents a canvas of opportunities for Dutch companies seeking to make a mark on the global stage”.

Participants at the India / Netherlands business seminar on “Cooperation in Innovation & Key Emerging Technologies” on January 11, 2024

Trade statistics showcased India’s robust economic growth, nearing the position of the third-largest economy by 2030. The Netherlands emerged as India’s 11th largest merchandise trading partner globally and the largest in the European Union. More than 300 Indian companies have their presence in the Netherlands and a similar number of Dutch companies have their foothold in India. The total merchandise trade during the F.Y. 2022-2023 stood at USD 27.580 billion, with the Netherlands being India’s largest merchandise export destination in Europe.

Celebrate Bahrain Season Shatters Records with Over 100,000 Visitors

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Celebrate Bahrain Season Shatters Records with Over 100,000 Visitors

22nd January 2024 – Bahrain’s resplendent variety of culture, music, sports, and family festivities came alive during the recently concluded Celebrate Bahrain Season. The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) proudly announced the outstanding success of the event, which attracted a staggering number of over 100,000 visitors. This accomplishment not only underscores Bahrain’s appeal as a premier global tourism destination but also sets a new standard for cultural celebrations in the region.

The Celebrate Bahrain Season, a collaborative effort with numerous partners, showcased a diverse array of events across various governorates, creating an immersive experience for both locals and visitors alike. From family-oriented activities to musical extravaganzas, cultural showcases, and sporting events, the festival encapsulated the spirit of Bahrain’s rich heritage and modern vibrancy.

The grand finale of Celebrate Bahrain Season ended in a spectacular New Year’s celebration at iconic locations such as Water Garden City, Marassi Beach, Bahrain Bay, Bahrain Harbour, Bahrain Fort, Bahrain National Museum, and Al Najmah Club.

The overwhelming turnout transformed the Festival City into a vibrant melting pot of cultures, entertainment, and joy, leaving an impact on everyone involved.

A notable achievement of Celebrate Bahrain Season was its ability to draw a substantial number of tourists from around the world. Exclusive promotions and a diverse range of events successfully captivated the attention of global travelers, solidifying Bahrain’s position as an unparalleled destination for those seeking a unique and memorable experience.

Bahrain’s dedication to hosting successful and inclusive events is evident in the multifaceted success of Celebrate Bahrain Season. The strategic partnerships forged during the celebrations not only exceeded expectations but also positioned Bahrain as a trendsetter in cultural festivities in the region.

As the kingdom continues to evolve as a prominent tourism hub, events like Celebrate Bahrain play an important role in shaping Bahrain’s global identity and attracting visitors from around the globe.

Zeitgeist Irland 24 launched in Berlin by Tánaiste Micheál Martin 

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Zeitgeist Irland 24 launched in Berlin by Tánaiste Micheál Martin 


Friday, 19 January 2024, Berlin, Federal Republic of Germany: Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister of Ireland), Minister for Foreign Affairs and for Defence, Micheál Martin travelled to Berlin for a number of high-level meetings, and to launch Zeitgeist Irland 24, a season of Irish arts and culture across Germany in 2024.

During his visit, the Tánaiste met with the Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany Annalena Baerbock where they had a warm and constructive meeting reflecting the very strong friendship between our two countries. After their meeting, the Tánaiste and Minister Baerbock conducted a joint press conference. 

While in Berlin, the Tánaiste also had a valuable exchange with the Bundestag Committee on European Affairs on shared European priorities and he provided a keynote address on ‘Navigating Europe: Ireland’s Voice in Shaping the Future of Europe’ at the Jacques Delors Centre affiliated to the Hertie School in association with the Free University Berlin.

Alongside the State Minister for European Affairs and Climate Dr. Anna Lührmann, the Tánaiste launched Zeitgeist Irland 24 at a spectacular event in front of over 350 people during an event held at Berlin’s Metropol. The Zeitgeist Irland 24 programme of cultural events will bring new vibrancy to the long-standing connections between Ireland and Germany while showcasing the very best that contemporary Irish arts has to offer. It is a partnership between the Embassy of Ireland in Germany headed by Ambassador Dr. Nicholas O’Brien and Culture Ireland, supported by Tourism Ireland and will take place right across Germany over the coming year.

The launch event included a diverse line-up of Irish artists who are part of the Zeitgeist Irland 24 programme and provided an insight into the variety of Irish talent that will be performing across Germany in 2024.

For further information 

Homepage

Norwegian accreditation for Oman’s Maitha Al Mahrouqi

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Norwegian accreditation for Oman’s Maitha Al Mahrouqi

Thursday, 18 January 2024, Oslo, Kingdom of Norway: His Majesty King Harald V of Norway received the letters of credence from Oman’s non-resident top envoy Maitha Saif Majid Al Mahrouqi in a ceremony held at the Royal Palace. Al Mahrouqi took the opportunity to convey King Harald V the best regards from Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik Al Said.

Maitha Al Mahrouqi is based from the Omani diplomatic chancery located in Berlin’s Grunewald district, Germany, since the autumn of 2022. Previous to her ambassadorship, Maitha Al Mahrouqi served in the capacity as Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for eleven years. Therein she was responsible for the oversight of the ministry’s strategic ambitions to drive economic growth through tourism. She also sat on a number of boards of directors and committees in ministries, governmental entities and companies with financial and economic legislative mandates.  

Ambassador Al Mahrouqi began her professional career in the aviation sector, working for Gulf Air, and becoming the youngest General Manager in the airline’s history. Thereafter she moved on to serve the country’s national carrier, Oman Air, as Country Manager, transforming the Oman office into a main hub for the airline.

Maitha Al Mahrouqi holds a Bachelor of Arts from Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom. She is fluent in English and Arabic. 

She was awarded the Oman’s Civil Order (3rd Class) in 2015 by the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said bin Taimur Al Said. Al Mahrouqi was awarded the Distinguished Arab Women Award in the tourism sector in 2016 by the Arab Women’s Council. In 2014, Al Mahrouqi was named as one of the most powerful women in the public sector by Forbes Middle East.

For further information 

Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman to Germany, to the Nordic countries, Poland and Ukraine: https://www.fm.gov.om/berlin/#Bilateral-relations

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Image courtesy of the Embassy of Oman in Germany

International Criminal Court Marks Opening of the Judicial Year 2024

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International Criminal Court Marks Opening of the Judicial Year 2024

On 19 January 2024, the International Criminal Court held a solemn hearing for the opening of its judicial year, featuring speeches of this year’s keynote speaker, Honorable Lady Justice Stella Isibhakhomen Anukam, Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, ICC Principals, and the President of the ICC Bar Association. ICC judges as well as the Vice-President of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), Ambassador Margareta Kassangana, Representatives from national jurisdictions, regional or international courts, the diplomatic corps, civil society and international organizations, also attended the event in ICC Courtroom 1 or through the online streaming.

The President of the ICC, Judge Piotr Hofmański, stated: “2023 was an extremely intense year for the ICC, both as regards judicial proceedings as well as investigations and reparations. This heavy workload will continue in 2024. What we would hope to see, of course, is more suspects in custody. We need States to step up their efforts to execute the outstanding arrest warrants.”

Honorable Lady Justice Stella Isibhakhomen Anukam, Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, delivers Keynote Address at the opening of the ICC judicial year 2024 on 19 January 2024 at the seat of the Court in The Hague ©ICC-CPI

Honorable Lady Justice Stella Isibhakhomen Anukam, Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, delivered a keynote address on the role of judicial institutions in pursuing sustainable peace, security and development and stated: “The strengthening of judicial institutions plays a key role in the restoration and consolidation of peace by facilitating the maintenance of law and order and fostering the peaceful resolution of disputes. … By holding the perpetrators accountable, the ICC ensures that justice is served, and prevents further crimes from occurring, hence contributing to sustainable peace, security and development. ”

Prosecutor Karim AA Khan KC noted: “The opening of the judicial year is always a time for pause, reflection and re-commitment to doing better. This opening also is full of the hope, promise and expectations that victims around the world and humanity have for more justice and less crime. It is also one in which the obligation of the Court to effectively discharge its mandate is put into very stark relief. My Office and I commit to working with fidelity under the Rome Statute, to discharge our responsibilities by building partnerships and by independently assessing the evidence that we gather so that justice can be delivered more effectively in all areas where the Court has jurisdiction.”

ICC Registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler said: ”Looking forward to the year ahead, we find ourselves in the midst of a paradigm shift, where the demands for justice test the capacities of the international community to adequately address them. The Court’s operational landscape is undergoing a drastic expansion, reaching across five continents. Simultaneously, we are confronted with unprecedented security challenges that threaten the very essence of our institution. Security serves as a crucial precondition for the success of our operations, whilst also forming the foundation for judicial and prosecutorial independence, therefore placing it at the heart of the Court’s legitimacy.”

The President of the International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA) Marie-Hélène Proulx stated: “In a world that may seem more uncertain and dangerous with each passing day, justice must remain our guiding light. And for the rule of law to thrive, we need fearless lawyers. We need advocates who will represent victims with heart and soul, lawyers who will defend their clients tooth and nail, independent of prejudice and public opinion. We need lawyers who are not afraid to do the right thing, even when it is unpopular, controversial, or difficult. ICC external counsel and their teams are made of that cloth, and the ICCBA is proud to represent them and advocate for them.”

The solemn hearing was followed by the ICC’s Sixth Annual Judicial Seminar attended by ICC judges and more than 40 judges from international, regional and national courts, including several chief justices of ICC States Parties , held both online and at the seat of the Court. This year’s Seminar will focus on the role and the rights of victims in the context of judicial responses to international crimes, at the ICC as well as in other jurisdictions, notably national and regional courts. A summary report of the Judicial Seminar, held under Chatham House rules, will be issued subsequently. The ICC is grateful to the European Union for the funding provided for the Judicial Seminar.

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