EU steps up support for investigations into war crimes and accountability in Syria

July 19, 2017
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The European Union will provide €1.5 million for war crimes investigations in Syria. “Justice for the victims is key for an effective and inclusive reconciliation process in Syria. This is why those responsible for war crimes need to be held accountable and as soon as possible”, said EU High Representative Federica Mogherini, announcing the support on 19 July.

The money will support the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to Assist in the Investigation and Prosecution of Persons Responsible for the Most Serious Crimes under International Law Committed in Syria, established under a UN Resolution in December 2016.

The European Union considers that without justice, war crimes go unpunished, victims are unable to obtain redress and peace remains an elusive goal, a press release said, adding “accountability for war crimes, human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law is essential to ensuring a meaningful political transition in Syria”.

Support from the international community to the Mechanism, including through adequate financial means, is needed to ensure it can start work as soon as possible.

The €1.5 million provision to support the Mechanism was adopted as a measure under the Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace.

 

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Press release

International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to Assist in the Investigation and Prosecution of Those Responsible for the Most Serious Crimes under International Law Committed in the Syrian Arab Republic since March 2011

EU Strategy for Syria

 

 

Countries covered:

  • Syria *
Thematics
Human Rights