United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights visits International Criminal Court

On Wednesday, 16 November 2016, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, visited the Permanent Premises of the International Criminal Court (ICC), where he met with the President of the Court, Judge Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi. After the meeting, the High Commissioner was given a tour of the Court's permanent premises, which were officially opened earlier this year.

During their meeting, the President of the Court and the High Commissioner discussed the strong connections between international criminal justice and international human rights mechanisms, and agreed on the importance of continued cooperation between the Court and the United Nations under the UN-ICC Relationship Agreement.

"While our mandates are distinct, they are both essential for the international community's aspirations for justice, the rule of law and the protection of human rights", President Fernández stated. "The Court has made important progress in its mandate to investigate and prosecute the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole. As we continue our efforts and tackle many challenges, I am tremendously appreciative of the strong support provided by the United Nations for the Court's work", she added.

"Both the ICC and the United Nations seek to contribute to justice and to the UN Charter's affirmation of 'faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person'", said the High Commissioner. "Although the powerful may fear the Court, victims, everywhere, plead for its involvement. The ICC's work must continue."

For further information, please contact Fadi El Abdallah, Spokesperson/Head, Public Affairs Unit, International Criminal Court, by telephone at: +31 (0)70 515-9152 or 31 (0)6 46448938 or by e-mail at: [email protected]

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