By KYIV. Jan 9 (Interfax-Ukraine) – Justice ministers from around the world will convene in London in March to discuss steps to support the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigating war crimes in Ukraine, the British government press service has said.
It is noted that the meeting will be hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab and Minister of Justice and Security of the Netherlands Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius.
The group will hear from ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan on the court’s work and the role of the international community in supporting its investigations.
The meeting comes as Russia steps up its campaign of terror against Ukraine, striking at crucial energy infrastructure and plunging people into the dark and freezing cold of winter. In reclaimed areas of Ukraine, prosecutors continue to gather evidence of atrocities and sexual violence.
Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Justice Dominic Raab said the UK will continue to back Ukraine until justice is served.
"Almost a year on from the illegal invasion, the international community must give its strongest backing to the ICC so war criminals can be held to account for the atrocities we are witnessing," he said.
The meeting will allow countries to determine how to provide further help to the ICC. This includes practical support such as helping to gather information and share evidence of atrocities committed on the ground. Ministers will also discuss how to help victims and witnesses provide testimonies without causing them further distress.
"The reports and images of Russia’s unlawful and unprovoked armed attack on Ukraine are horrific. For us it is crystal clear: these crimes may not go unpunished. During this timely meeting, we will continue to coordinate with our partners to ensure that support to the ICC and the Ukrainian authorities is offered," Dutch Minister of Justice and Security Yeşilgöz-Zegerius said.
