Norway is fully behind the joint statement by current and incoming Council members, presented by Mexico, and the Nordic statement to be presented by Iceland.
The establishment of the ICC was a huge achievement. And the Court has delivered great work addressing the most serious crimes under international law.
It is the most important institution when it comes to ensuring individual criminal accountability for atrocity crimes, as a complement to national criminal justice systems. We especially commend the ICC for the steps taken to ensure better accountability for crimes against, and affecting, children in armed conflict.
But, we can do more. We must step up our cooperation and support to the Court. In situations where accountability is needed, and the ICC does not have jurisdiction, the Security Council should fill this gap by referring more situations. And the veto should not be used in such instances. Referrals must be accompanied by appropriate funds and support from the Council.
The Council must systematically follow up on country situations it refers, and in cases of States’ non-cooperation with the ICC. We must do everything we can to end impunity for perpetrators, and ensure justice for victims and survivors. Accountability is crucial for achieving sustainable peace, stability, and reconciliation. We must also do more to achieve universality.
Norway continues to encourage all States to ratify the Rome Statute. And I reiterate Norway’s full support for the ICC and its important work.
I thank you.