Mechanism briefs diplomatic community in The Hague

The Principals of the Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals (Mechanism) today held a briefing attended by approximately 100 members of The Hague and Brussels diplomatic community. President Theodor Meron, Prosecutor Serge Brammertz and Registrar John Hocking outlined the Mechanism’s role and functions and briefed representatives on recent activities.

The Principals underlined the fact that the Mechanism is currently in a period of intense judicial activity, handling a number of cases stemming from the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), including one case currently at pre-trial (Stanišić and Simatović) and two cases on appeal following their respective ICTY trial judgements (Karadžić and Šešelj). The Principals also discussed the future of the Mechanism’s operations, especially in light of the approaching closure of the ICTY, and expressed their gratitude to States for their continuing support.

President Meron first welcomed the diplomatic corps, highlighting the importance of State cooperation and support for the Mechanism. Discussing the institutional character of the Mechanism, President Meron emphasized its innovative nature, adding that “the Mechanism will be able to stand as a new model of international court: one that is leaner and more efficient, while continuing to meet the highest international standards of due process.”

Prosecutor Brammertz outlined the key priorities for his Office in the upcoming period, namely expeditiously litigating trials and appeals, tracking remaining fugitives of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), assisting national courts prosecuting war crimes, and managing the Office’s work in a cost-efficient manner.

Registrar Hocking offered a status update of the activities and achievements of the Registry. Explaining how the Mechanism has remained true to the Security Council’s vision for a small and efficient institution, he emphasized how "efficiency has not just meant savings. Savings have gone side by side with the fulfillment of our goals."