ICC should investigate atrocities in Syria

‘The International Criminal Court should investigate the atrocities in Syria. Norway supports the resolution submitted to the UN Security Council today, which calls on the ICC to look into the situation in Syria,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.
 
The conflict in Syria, which began in 2011, has involved widespread abuses by both the regime and the opposition forces. The Syrian authorities have not shown the capacity or the will to investigate and prosecute the serious crimes committed by combatants on both sides.
 
‘The conflict in Syria has become increasingly intense and brutal. It is vital to send a clear message that atrocities in Syria will be investigated and prosecuted, both to combat impunity and to prevent new violations,’ said Mr Brende.
 
Norway is therefore supporting the resolution, which is a French initiative and calls for the ICC to investigate and prosecute the perpetrators of the most serious crimes committed during the armed conflict in Syria. This initiative is being supported by a great many countries, who all consider it crucial that those responsible are held accountable. The draft resolution covers alleged crimes committed in Syria by both sides to the conflict since March 2011.

‘All the Security Council member states share a particular responsibility to prevent further atrocities in Syria,’ Foreign Minister Brende said.