Statement by H.E. Ambassador ISHIKANE Kimihiro, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Open Debate “Strengthening Accountability and Justice for Serious Violations of International Law”
2022/6/2
(As delivered)
Madame President,
I thank Albania for convening this open debate. I would also like to thank Judge Donoghue, the President of the International Court of Justice, Ms. Bachelet, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Professor Akande for their briefings.
I would like to emphasize three critical elements in upholding the rule of law in international relations, and share Japan’s concrete actions in this regard.
The first is the theme of today’s meeting: strengthening accountability. Situations where violations of international law are overlooked and left without anyone being held accountable will have ripple effects elsewhere in the world and seriously undermine the stability and prosperity of the international community. For this reason, Japan has referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court and looks forward to continued progress in the investigation by Prosecutor Khan. Japan also welcomes the UN’s efforts to strengthen accountability in other parts of the world, including in Syria.
The second is strengthening national ownership for the rule of law. Japan has played a leading role in extending support for the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) since its inception. The trials have provided crucial steps toward the conclusion of the entire peace process in Cambodia, and have contributed to delivering justice and strengthening the rule of law in the country.
The third critical element is restoring the rights and dignity of victims and survivors. Japan has served as a Board member of the Global Fund for Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence since 2020 and will contribute 2 million euros, in addition to the 4 million euros contribution to date, to ensure access to reparations and redress for survivors. Japan will continue to actively engage in global advocacy for enhanced international cooperation to realize their access to justice, remedies and assistance.
Japan firmly supports efforts for justice and accountability. Respect for the rule of law and sustaining peace will never be achieved without tackling impunity. Japan will continue to work together with our partners to this end.
I thank you.
I thank Albania for convening this open debate. I would also like to thank Judge Donoghue, the President of the International Court of Justice, Ms. Bachelet, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Professor Akande for their briefings.
I would like to emphasize three critical elements in upholding the rule of law in international relations, and share Japan’s concrete actions in this regard.
The first is the theme of today’s meeting: strengthening accountability. Situations where violations of international law are overlooked and left without anyone being held accountable will have ripple effects elsewhere in the world and seriously undermine the stability and prosperity of the international community. For this reason, Japan has referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court and looks forward to continued progress in the investigation by Prosecutor Khan. Japan also welcomes the UN’s efforts to strengthen accountability in other parts of the world, including in Syria.
The second is strengthening national ownership for the rule of law. Japan has played a leading role in extending support for the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) since its inception. The trials have provided crucial steps toward the conclusion of the entire peace process in Cambodia, and have contributed to delivering justice and strengthening the rule of law in the country.
The third critical element is restoring the rights and dignity of victims and survivors. Japan has served as a Board member of the Global Fund for Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence since 2020 and will contribute 2 million euros, in addition to the 4 million euros contribution to date, to ensure access to reparations and redress for survivors. Japan will continue to actively engage in global advocacy for enhanced international cooperation to realize their access to justice, remedies and assistance.
Japan firmly supports efforts for justice and accountability. Respect for the rule of law and sustaining peace will never be achieved without tackling impunity. Japan will continue to work together with our partners to this end.
I thank you.