A+ A-

Int''l human rights groups call for referral of Syria to ICC

BRUSSELS, Jan 13 (KUNA) -- The International Federation for Human Rights, which represents 164 human rights organizations round the world, Sunday stressed that the Intrnational Criminal Court (ICC) has a key role to play in the resolution of the Syrian conflict.
"Peace in Syria can only be effective if those most responsible for the most serious crimes - whatever their affiliation - face justice. The future of Syria can only be built on a strong fight against impunity", Souhayr Belhassen President of FIDH said in a statement.
Switzerland will present a letter to the President of the Security Council of the United Nations Monday, jointly with more than 50 States from all over the world, requesting the Security Council to refer the Syrian situation to the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
"The Swiss initiative could entail a dissuasive dynamic that must be supported by the largest number of States," said Belhassen.
"The ICC must intervene to ensure that victims find justice and that perpetrators of the most serious crimes are prosecuted. A referral to the ICC would entail the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of serious international crimes regardless of whether they fight on the government or the rebel side," said Patrick Baudouin, Honorary President of FIDH.(end) nk.wsa KUNA 131223 Jan 13NNNN