In recent days, there have been repeated reports of war crimes allegedly committed in Ukraine. There is little certainty about their existence or about those responsible. The international community has made one institution responsible for judging such serious crimes: the International Criminal Court (ICC), based in The Hague. This institution must investigate, in complete independence and impartiality, charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. It is essential that such investigations be conducted by an independent court with the necessary resources.
And that is where the shoe pinches. In the ICC prosecutor's statements on the Ukraine investigation, we could read that the investigation is experiencing problems due to a lack of resources. It is indeed a well-known fact that the ICC is not rich in resources and therefore often has to make choices as to what is and what is not prosecuted. As citizens, we sometimes find it difficult if petty crime is not prosecuted. What about the fact that some of the worst crimes are not prosecuted?
Nevertheless, a solution is not difficult to achieve. The lack of resources does not have to remain a real problem and does not require major procedures. There is nothing to prevent states and the EU from giving additional resources to the ICC. That is perfectly possible. Like many United Nations institutions, voluntary contributions are possible. And why should Belgium not take the lead in this? Belgium has already underlined the importance of the ICC. Now it can put its money where its mouth is. And why should the EU and its Member States not follow suit? In recent years, the EU has made human rights and respect for the rule of law an important principle. Why not enforce them now? Why should we wait?
For the quality of research, speed is of the essence. Work must be done quickly. And with efficient means. Evidence must be critically examined. All this requires resources that have to be made available quickly. The call is clear: set in motion a movement of states that financially support this very important research. Indignation is not enough. Resources must be forthcoming.
What are we waiting for?
