According to the EU, sanctions directed at the Court, its officials and personnel risk undermining the institution’s ability to discharge its responsibilities under international law.
The European Union has reaffirmed its “unwavering support” for the International Criminal Court (ICC), strongly condemning the decision by the United States to impose sanctions on the Court’s President, Judge Tomoko Akane, and Senior Trial Lawyer, Abdoulaye Seye.
The EU said the ICC remains a cornerstone of the international criminal justice system and plays a critical role in the global fight against impunity, particularly by ensuring accountability for some of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.
In a statement issued in response to the latest US sanctions, the European Union on Wednesday said it “deeply regrets” Washington’s decision, stressing that the independence, impartiality and ability of the ICC to carry out its mandate must be protected from external pressure, intimidation and interference.
“The European Union reiterates its unwavering support for the International Criminal Court (ICC). The EU deeply regrets the decision by the United States to impose sanctions against International Criminal Court President Judge Tomoko Akane and Senior Trial Lawyer Abdoulaye Seye,” the bloc said.
