On Thursday, the United States Ambassador to the United Nations said that “promoting accountability in Libya will go a long way towards addressing the chronic instability Libya continues to face, including the mobilization of armed groups.”
Addressing the UN Security Council session on Libya, the US diplomat said that “human rights violations and abuses will continue unless meaningful steps are taken in this regard.”
He also called for the “withdrawal of all armed groups and mercenaries from Libya without further delay, which is considered a critical step toward peace and stability.”
The US delegate noted that the International Criminal Court (ICC) “has an important role to play in the international system of justice, and the work of the ICC in Libya plays a critical role in support of our collective pursuit of accountability, peace, and security.”
He also commended the “extraordinary dedication of the Court’s staff, and the sustained efforts of the Court to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the heinous atrocities committed against the Libyan people since February 2011.”
“The United States also congratulates the Office of the Prosecutor for its role in the arrest in January of a suspect wanted by Dutch authorities for brutal crimes against migrants, and commends the United Arab Emirates for its role in his apprehension,” the US diplomat added.
The US Ambassador stressed that the US “remains deeply concerned about the fate of migrants, including women and children who have experienced sexual violence, and who continue to be subjected to abuse.”
He urged the Libyan authorities to “take credible measures to dismantle the trafficking and smuggling routes.”
“We are encouraged by progress on ICC discussions with Libyan authorities to enhance the long-term presence of ICC staff, including by opening a liaison office in Libya, as a key means to enhance cooperation with national authorities and victims,” he stated.
However, he called on Libyan authorities “to do more to support and advance accountability efforts, and to enhance cooperation with the ICC, including in ensuring that those subject to arrest warrants face justice as soon as possible.”
