It also requires attention to strengthening the transparency and accountability of public institutions, including particularly those sectors directly engaged in the provision of security and the administration of justice. Human security can also be enhanced through the promotion of liberal democratic forms of governance, which, by nature, call for the protection and participation of individuals in the decision-making processes affecting their lives. Taking Concrete Action Thanks to the efforts of civil society and a number of countries, including Canada, the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court entered into force on July 1, 2002. The International Criminal Court (ICC) now exists as a truly international court charged with prosecuting the world’s worst crimes – genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. Canadian Ambassador Philippe Kirsch served as Chair of the Preparatory Commission responsible for completing the subsidiary documents that ensure the ICC runs smoothly. Ambassador Kirsch was elected as a judge of the ICC by the Assembly of States parties and was elected President of the ICC by his fellow judges. Other countries and organizations look to Canada for continued leadership on this issue and how to ratify and implement the Rome Statute.
The Human Security Program of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT) invests in initiatives that promote accountability and good governance. As a crucial part of Canada’s ICC Campaign, the Program has supported a number of initiatives to promote ratification and co-sponsored many workshops specifically designed to assist countries in incorporating their obligations under the Rome Statute into their national laws. The Program has worked with two Canadian organizations – the International Centre for Criminal Law Reform and Criminal Justice Policy (ICCLR) and Rights & Democracy – in the development of a practical, step-by-step guide to help countries ratify and implement the ICC Statute. To date, this Manual has been used by over 75 countries.
Fostering Future Security The Human Security Program will continue to promote ratification of the Rome Statute. The Program is also working with corporations in conflict settings. Together with over 15 major international corporations, the Human Security Program has supported the Harvard University-based, Collaborative for Development Action’s research efforts to develop clear and practical guidelines for corporations operating in conflict situations. Multilateral partnerships are also an important component of Canada’s commitment to ensuring good governance and accountability. The Program has supported the creation of the Organization of American States’ (OAS) Justice Studies Centre of the Americas in Chile.
See Also  International Criminal Court
Democratization Justice and security system reform Business and human rights | 
