EU Statement On ICC Gaddafi Arrest Warrants

The European Union has taken note of the decision of the International Criminal Court’s Pre-Trial Chamber I on 27 June to issue an arrest warrant against Muammar Abu Minya Gaddafi, Saif Al Islam Gaddafi and Abdullah Al Sanousi in connection with alleged crimes against humanity in Libya.

The European Union fully supports the International Criminal Court, which plays a key role in the promotion of international justice. The International Criminal Court is an essential mean of promoting respect for international humanitarian law and human rights, thus contributing to security, justice and the rule of law as well as contributing to the preservation of peace and the strengthening of international security.

The EU recalls the fundamental principle contained in the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court that the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole must not go unpunished. Putting an end to impunity for the perpetrators of theses crimes contributes to the prevention of such crimes.

The EU calls for full co-operation with the International Criminal Court and underscores that the International Criminal Court’s investigation in Libya is an independent judicial process which must be fully respected.