July 17, 1998 No. 175

CANADIAN OBJECTIVES MET IN AGREEMENT ON INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT

Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy, attending the final day of a diplomatic conference held in Rome from June 15 to July 17, today welcomed the successful conclusion of negotiations to establish a permanent International Criminal Court (ICC).

Representatives from 160 countries have agreed to the Statute of the Court, which will have to be ratified by 60 states before entry into force. It will have jurisdiction over the crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes, including those committed in internal armed conflicts. Proceedings will be initiated by an independent prosecutor, as well as by states. There is also provision for referrals to the Court by the United Nations Security Council.

"The creation of the Court is the culmination of years of arduous work and five weeks of intensive meetings here in Rome," said Mr. Axworthy. "It marks a significant step in the deterrence of the most serious violation of international humanitarian law, and in putting a stop to impunity for the most heinous crimes."

Mr. Axworthy also welcomed the Statute's ground-breaking focus on the plight of women and children in armed conflict by recognizing rape and the recruitment of child soldiers as war crimes. These two issues were priorities for Canada throughout the negotiations.

"This is a court worth having," said Mr. Axworthy. The collective efforts of the international community have realized an institution that will be independent and effective."

Mr. Axworthy congratulated Canada's Philippe Kirsch, Legal Advisor to the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, who acted as Chairman of the Conference and who ably presided over the international meeting through the final tough negotiations. He also congratulated the Canadian delegation, including the non-governmental organizations, who participated in Rome and in the various international meetings to establish the Court. Their drive, commitment and outstanding work were vital to ensure the positive results achieved.

Countries participating in the conference will sign the Final Act of the Conference, the summary document of the negotiation results, in Rome tomorrow.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Debora Brown

Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs

(613) 995-1851

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

This document is also available on the Department's Internet site: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca