Indian Campaign on International Criminal Court

The meeting was addressed by Judge Philippe Kirsch, the President of the International Criminal Court. The MPs represented the Parliamentarian Forum on Human Rights.

Booklet

Addressing more than 50 MPs from various political parties, Judge Kirsch spoke about the fundamental principles of the International Criminal Court and the need for such a judicial system. He emphasized the role of civil society, including that of the members of Parliament, in understanding the issues involved in the universal ratification and acceptance of the ICC. The address was followed by a lively discussion in which Judge Kirsch responded to several questions posed by the members ranging from weapons of mass destruction, politically motivated prosecution, terrorism, and issues of state sovereignty to compensation to victims. Special attention to what constitutes state's willingness or unwillingness in referring cases to ICC. Mr. Kirsch also released a booklet supported by FNSt, which clarifies questions posed by the parliamentarians during the first Consultative Meeting held on 3rd August 2005. This booklet was widely acclaimed to be very helpful for the discussion in India.

Mr. S. Natchiappan, Chairperson of the Forum noted that he would urge the Indian Government to send a strong delegation to the ICC Review Conference to be held in 2009, which was welcomed by Mr. Kirsch.

Group Photo

Earlier, the organizers launched a two days consultation on the ICC with opinion makers representing educational institutions, NGOs, media, and others, at the Gandhi Peace Foundation. Judge Kirsch addressed this forum too. Dr René Klaff, Regional Director, FNSt, participated in the discussion.