Progress Made in ICC Investigation of Crimes in Libya
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has made significant progress in its investigation of crimes in Libya, according to its 26th report. The report, submitted to the United Nations Security Council, outlines the achievements and challenges faced by the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor in its ongoing efforts.
One of the major developments highlighted in the report is the implementation of the ICC’s renewed strategy for the situation in Libya. This strategy, initially outlined in the Prosecutor’s 23rd report, has guided the Office’s investigative activities. The Libya Unified Team, established under this strategy, has been instrumental in achieving important milestones.
Over the reporting period, the Team conducted more than 15 missions in three regions, collecting over 4,000 pieces of evidence, including video and audio materials, forensic information, and satellite imagery. This evidence, along with numerous witness screenings and interviews, has been crucial in advancing the investigation.
Significant breakthroughs have been made in the investigation of crimes related to the 2014-2020 operations. The Office has successfully concluded lines of inquiry against key suspects and is nearing the completion of investigative activities in this area. Progress has also been made in addressing crimes against migrants and investigating detention facilities.
The Office has actively engaged with national authorities, in line with the principle of complementarity, to contribute to ongoing investigations conducted by the domestic law enforcement agencies of six State Parties. Cooperation with domestic authorities, including the Joint Team on crimes affecting migrants, has remained strong.
In terms of technological advancements, the Team has transitioned to a cloud-based evidence management system. This system incorporates artificial intelligence and machine-learning tools, such as automatic transcription and translation of video and audio materials, enhancing the efficiency of the investigation.
To facilitate the submission of information from external stakeholders, including potential witnesses, the Office has launched the OTPLink digital platform. This platform ensures secure and rapid communication between stakeholders and the Office of the Prosecutor, not only for the situation in Libya but also for other cases under the Office’s purview.
The Office’s increased engagement with victims, victims’ associations, and civil society organizations in Libya has enriched the investigation, providing access to vital evidence and witnesses. Despite the complex political landscape and security challenges in Libya, the Office has been able to make progress.
However, resource constraints continue to pose challenges to the Office’s work. In addition, obtaining visas for operational-level field missions to Libya has proven difficult in the reporting period. Nevertheless, recent engagements with the Government of Libya have shown positive indications of future cooperation.
Based on the progress made since the implementation of the renewed strategy, the Office anticipates being able to outline a potential roadmap for the completion of its activities in a subsequent report to the Security Council.
The ICC’s investigation into crimes in Libya remains a vital step towards ensuring justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible. The progress made thus far serves as a testament to the Office’s dedication and determination to fulfill its mandate.
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