International Criminal Court
OBJECTIVES OF THE ICC
The European Union fully supports the International Criminal Court (ICC). The principles of the Rome Statute of the ICC, as well as those governing its functioning, are fully in line with the principles and objectives of the Union. The consolidation of the rule of law and respect for human rights, as well as the preservation of peace and the strengthening of international security, in conformity with the Charter of the United Nations and as provided for in Article 11 of the EU Treaty, are of fundamental importance to, and a priority for, the Union.
THE EUROPEAN UNION SUPPORTS THE ICC
The serious crimes within the jurisdiction of the ICC are of concern for the European Union, which is determined to co-operate for the prevention of those crimes and for putting an end to the impunity of the perpetrators thereof. In this framework, the European Union adopted, on 11 June 2001, Common Position 2001/443/CFSP on the International Criminal Court, which has been reviewed and reinforced on 20 June 2002 by Common Position 2002/474/CFSP, and on 16 June 2003 by Common Position 2003/444/CFSP.
The objective of the Common Position is to support the early establishment and effective functioning of the Court and to advance universal support for the Court by promoting the widest possible participation in the Statute.
The European Union also finalised on 04 February 2004 an Action Plan to follow-up the Common Position.
Accordingly, the European Union and its Member States make every effort to further this process by, inter alia, raising the issue of the widest possible ratification, acceptance, approval or accession to the Rome Statute and the implementation of the Statute through démarches and statements, and in negotiations or political dialogues with third States, groups of States or relevant regional organisations, whenever appropriate.
STATE OF AFFAIRS
As of 2 September 2010, the Rome Statute of the ICC has been signed by 139 States and ratified - or acceded to - by 113 States. The Statute has entered into force on 1 July 2002.