Mechanism’s Hague branch welcomes visitors for Just Peace Open Day

Today, the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (Mechanism) was delighted to welcome over 350 visitors to its Hague branch as part of Just Peace Open Day 2024, organised by the City of The Hague and The Hague Humanity Hub.

The President of the Mechanism, Judge Graciela Gatti Santana, opened the event and welcomed the first visitors, introducing them to the role and current priorities of the Mechanism as successor to both the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR). She highlighted that the Mechanism has reached an interesting moment in its lifespan, having “transitioned from being a fully operational court to a truly residual institution”.

Throughout the day, visitors had the unique opportunity to learn more about the work of the Mechanism through guided courtroom tours and discussions with Mechanism staff. Additionally, attendees were introduced to the archives managed by the Mechanism, which comprise invaluable records from the ICTR, the ICTY and the Mechanism itself. These archives serve as a vital resource in preserving the historical record of international criminal justice as delivered by these three institutions.

Visitors also had a chance to engage with the Mechanism’s Information Programme for Affected Communities, which plays a crucial role in preserving the legacy of the ICTY and Mechanism and making their findings accessible to the people of the former Yugoslavia.