The ICC’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, has called for a special tribunal to tackle the enduring violence in the DRC, highlighting failures of existing international justice mechanisms. He advocates for a holistic approach to manage the ongoing atrocities and proposed a DRC-owned tribunal that could blend international and local judicial elements. This initiative comes as the ICC faces criticism and demands reassurance of its efficacy.
The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has called for the establishment of a special tribunal to address the ongoing atrocities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). During his visit to Kinshasa, Khan highlighted the failure of international courts to effectively manage three decades of violent conflict, particularly in the eastern regions where groups like M23, allegedly supported by Rwanda, continue to wreak havoc. He expressed deep concern regarding the rising violence and underscored the necessity of a more comprehensive approach to justice.
Khan reiterated that despite the ICC’s past efforts, violence persists in the DRC, with multiple armed groups involved in various conflicts across the country. He emphasized that accountability must extend beyond individual cases to fundamentally disrupt these cycles of violence. To achieve lasting peace, he believes it is essential to adopt a more holistic and well-resourced justice system that effectively addresses the root causes of the conflict.
The proposed special tribunal, which will be discussed at an international conference in April, is intended to be established on Congolese soil and owned by the DRC. Khan mentioned that the tribunal may adopt a hybrid format, combining both international and local judges. He is committed to ensuring that justice is tangible for the people affected by violence rather than being merely performative.
Khan’s statements arise amidst a growing crisis of confidence in the ICC and other international institutions. He pointed out that these bodies are currently facing significant scrutiny, particularly from nations such as the United States, which recently imposed sanctions on him. Khan stressed the importance of demonstrating the value of these institutions in order to combat skepticism and protect the integrity of the global justice system.
Karim Khan of the ICC advocates for a special tribunal in the DRC to address decades of violence and provide comprehensive justice. He highlights the failure of current international efforts to stop ongoing atrocities and suggests a hybrid tribunal model to better fit Congolese needs. He emphasizes the importance of proving that international justice can deliver real impacts amidst growing skepticism towards these institutions.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
