Statement by H.E. Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia at the 23nd Session of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome (video)

Madam President of the Assembly,
Distinguished delegates,

At the outset, I would like to congratulate the President of the Assembly, for a successful year of leadership. Her efforts in guiding the States Parties in these turbulent and challenging times are truly appreciated.

It is the first time the representative of the Republic of Armenia addresses the Session of the Assembly as a full-fledged member to the Rome Statute. So, we are making our first steps on this path, but we are ready to play an active role. The milestone decision to become a member of this august body was not an easy one. But having in mind the history of Armenia, we were firm in our belief that elimination of impunity, promotion of justice and accountability is of utmost importance and that it can only be achieved by uniting our efforts.

We believe that the International Criminal Court is an important element of international law. It also enhances the development of international law and makes it more appropriate to the present-day challenges. And, perhaps most importantly, it delivers justice to the victims of atrocities, which is a vital element for peace and reconciliation. Therefore, Armenia fully acknowledges and accepts the responsibility to actively contribute to the strengthening and advancement of the Court.

Regrettably, the geography of the most serious international crimes is expanding, and technological developments unveil new methods and opportunities for committing them. It is imperative that like-minded countries spare no effort to prevent and punish the gravest crimes, that challenge humanity: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression. We have already witnessed too many instances when the early warning and early actions are undermined by narrow political interests, paralyzing effective functioning of international bodies directly responsible for maintenance of international peace and security. In this regard, strengthening the prevention mechanisms, such as early warning capabilities along with the deterring potential of the international courts, in particular International Criminal Court, can lead us to a safer world.

Only by reinforcing the global consensus and conviction that the most serious crimes are intolerable and that accountability is crucial for lasting and sustainable peace we will ensure that justice is not a privilege for the few but a right for all. Armenia is ready to be very active in the processes of supporting regional and international collaboration to prevent impunity and strengthen adherence to international norms. We believe that a cooperative spirit among nations strengthens not only the ICC but also our collective ability to uphold justice and the rule of law.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As a long-standing supporter of the genocide prevention agenda, Armenia has been at the forefront of international action for strengthening of policies and practices against the crime of genocide, as well as building a global community network to advance the methods of prevention. Hence, Armenia initiated the Global Forum Against the Crime of Genocide in regular observance of the International Day of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime, designated by the UN General Assembly Resolution. Armenia is proud to be the penholder of that Resolution.

In conclusion, I would like to refer to the victim-centered nature of the ICC. We believe that victims deserve access to impartial justice, as the unpunished crimes lead to recurrence and repetition. In the context of supporting the victims, allow me to express a profound gratitude to the Trust Fund for Victims for supporting and implementing programs addressing the harms resulting from the Rome Statute Crimes.

I thank you.