Mr. President,
Allow me first of all to align myself with the statement pronounced yesterday by the Danish Presidency of the European Union. I would also like to express my satisfaction and gratitude, Mr. President, for the efficiency with which you have conducted this first Assembly of States Parties.
On an occasion like this, when the Court's States parties have come together for their first meeting, many have emphasized the importance of the ICC not only for justice, but also for peace and security. Both from a national perspective and as a part of the EU Common Position, and its corresponding Action Plan, Sweden has been active at bilateral and regional levels to assist other states in preparing for ratification and in implementing the Statute. We must now continue to work together for a universal accession to the Statute.
In these efforts, we have two fundamental interests to protect:
- First, the Common Position on the International Criminal Court reached together with the other EU Member States and to which we are bound. A number of other countries have aligned themselves with this position.
- Second, the integrity of the new court.
My government has been and continues to be ready to work with all states in order to solve any problems. However, all solutions must be compatible with the Rome Statute. The integrity of the statute must be upheld. My Government is highly critical of all efforts to undermine this treaty through agreements not in conformity with its object and purpose.
Mr President,
During this session of the Assembly of States Parties we have reached an agreement on the important issue on the procedure for the election of judges. In this context, I would like to underline the criteria set out in the Statute for eligibility. It is crucial that these criteria are observed by the States parties in the nomination process. Impartiality, integrity and qualifications to be appointed to the highest judicial offices are fundamental requirements. It is also important that we achieve a fair representation of both female and male judges.
The judges elected will carry a huge responsibility in adjudicating questions relating to the most heinous crimes we know of. Impunity for such crimes will no longer be tolerated. This is a major reason why the court’s task is of historic importance.
We fail to understand the anxiety expressed that the Court would be used for politically motivated purposes. The principle of complementarity and the other safeguards laid down in the Statute should dispel all concerns: the Prosecutor will be subject to strict rules governing investigation as well as strict rules of admissibility imposed by the Court. The Rome Statute is built on a very high level of justice, and integrates due process protections of the highest judicial standards.
We are convinced that the International Criminal Court will prove its rightful place in the international system for achieving universal justice.
Thank you for your attention.