Minister for Foreign Affairs Tobias Billström delivered a written statement at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, commemorating the twenty-fifth anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. In his statement, Minister Billström emphasized the importance of international criminal justice and accountability for heinous crimes.
Minister Billström highlighted that 25 years after the adoption of the Rome Statute, an effective international criminal justice system holds even greater significance. He recognized the historic nature of the Rome Statute’s adoption and its crucial role in closing the gap of impunity. On this anniversary, he stressed the need to defend international criminal justice and ensure accountability for the most atrocious crimes while protecting the rights of victims. Minister Billström reiterated Sweden’s full support for the International Criminal Court.
The fight against impunity, according to Minister Billström, is essential for maintaining a rules-based international order. The International Criminal Court, as the primary international institution for individual accountability, must be universally recognized and supported. He urged all states that have not yet ratified the Rome Statute to do so, allowing victims worldwide to access justice.
During Sweden’s presidency of the Council of the European Union in June, the EU expressed unwavering support for the International Criminal Court through council conclusions. The EU emphasized the court’s need to operate independently and impartially in its fight against impunity.
Sweden has consistently supported the Rome Statute and the work of the International Criminal Court. In addition to providing financial contributions, Sweden has seconded public prosecutors and investigating officers. Minister Billström stressed that states’ full cooperation is crucial for the court to fulfill its mandate. Protection for witnesses, prompt execution of outstanding arrest warrants, and shared enforcement of sentences by States Parties are essential.
Supporting and protecting the rights of victims was deemed crucial by Minister Billström. He announced that Sweden, through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, has made a renewed commitment to support the Trust Fund for Victims with an un-earmarked financial contribution of 15 million Swedish krona (SEK) or approximately 1.3 million EUR.
Minister Billström concluded by highlighting the international community’s commitment to ending impunity for serious crimes through the adoption of the Rome Statute. He assured that Sweden will continue its efforts to strengthen the international criminal justice system, ensuring accountability for the most serious crimes of concern to the global community.