The Coalition for the International Criminal Court advocates for Indonesia to ratify the Rome Statute. Their appeal coincides with the Universal Ratification Campaign, aimed at encouraging countries to join the ICC. Indonesian leaders have been praised for their acceptance of recommendations for accession, emphasizing the country’s commitment to human rights and international justice.
The Coalition for the International Criminal Court has urged Indonesia to reinforce its commitment to international justice by ratifying the Rome Statute, which has been accepted by 121 nations globally. This appeal is part of the Coalition’s Universal Ratification Campaign (URC), aimed at encouraging different countries each month to join the International Criminal Court (ICC).
In a letter addressed to President H.E. Mr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on July 5, 2012, the Coalition emphasized the need for Indonesia to accelerate its accession efforts to the ICC. The letter commemorated the tenth anniversary of the Statute’s enforcement and recognized the progress made in international justice, despite ongoing challenges.
Mugiyanto, convenor of the Indonesian Coalition for the ICC, stated that “Ratification of the Rome Statute will provide ample opportunity for Indonesia to be actively involved in world peace and global justice.” This membership would enhance Indonesia’s position regarding human rights and ensure equal standing with other nations that are party to the treaty.
The Coalition commended Indonesia for accepting twelve recommendations emphasizing its accession to the Rome Statute during the Human Rights Council’s recent Universal Periodic Review. Evelyn Serrano, the Coalition’s regional coordinator, emphasized that ICC membership aligns with Indonesia’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law, and that it would benefit the victims of serious crimes within the country.
Currently, 121 states have ratified the Rome Statute, with Guatemala being the most recent nation to join. In total, 17 countries in Asia and the Pacific region have become parties to the ICC, which serves as the world’s first permanent international court for prosecuting war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. The ICC operates on the principle of complementarity, intervening only when national systems are unable to prosecute. As of now, there are ongoing investigations in several countries, including Libya and Uganda, with various proceedings already initiated.
In conclusion, the Coalition for the International Criminal Court has called on Indonesia to ratify the Rome Statute, reinforcing the country’s stance on international justice and human rights. The Coalition, representing a vast network of civil society organizations, believes that Indonesia’s membership would not only solidify its commitment to justice but also potentially benefit victims of serious crimes. With only 121 nations ratifying the Statute, Indonesia is encouraged to join its peers and strengthen global collaboration in addressing crimes against humanity and war crimes.
Original Source: www.thebahamasweekly.com
