“Accountability for International Crimes is Essential for Justice and Lasting Peace in Libya”

The HAGUE - The Co-Chairs of the International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Working Group of the International Follow-up Committee on Libya of the Berlin Process - the Netherlands, Switzerland, and UNSMIL, following a meeting yesterday with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague – reaffirm their steadfast commitment to human rights, justice and accountability based on international law, as fundamental pillars for achieving sustainable peace and reconciliation in Libya.

“We fully support the work of the ICC and reiterate the importance of investigating and prosecuting atrocity crimes perpetrated in Libya. The pursuit of justice must remain independent, impartial, and free from political interference”, said the Co-Chairs. The ICC’s mandate in Libya, conferred by the United Nations Security Council (resolution 1970, 2011), is crucial in ensuring accountability for these crimes.

“We commend the ICC’s engagement to ensure credible, victim-centred accountability at both international and national levels,” the Co-Chairs stated. Justice for victims and survivors must remain at the core of Libya’s transition, and impunity for international crimes cannot be an option. We urge all UN member states to fully cooperate with the Court, in line with the Security Council referral, including by ensuring full access for ICC investigators, executing arrest warrants, and strengthening domestic legal frameworks for accountability.

As Libyans pursue the path to national reconciliation and democratic governance, ensuring accountability for past atrocities is not an obstacle to peace, but rather its foundation. The Co-Chairs reaffirm their commitment to support Libya’s efforts to advance human rights, ensure respect for international humanitarian law and end the cycle of impunity.