Statement delivered by Ambassador Trishala Persaud, Deputy Permanent Representative of Guyana to the UN at the Briefing on the 28th Report of the Prosecutor of the ICC to the United Nations pursuant to Resolution 1970 (2011)

Mr. President

I thank the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Mr. Karim Khan, for his presentation of the 28th report of his Office on the situation in Libya. I also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Libya in today’s meeting.

Guyana welcomes the continued implementation of the renewed strategy for the situation in Libya and the increased progress made on the roadmap to complete the investigative activities and to commence the judicial phase. The advancement made during the reporting period, particularly on the four key lines of inquiry, is encouraging. The unsealing of the six (6) arrest warrants related to crimes that took place in Tarhunah was a notable development.

Mr. President

Guyana reiterates the critical importance of cooperation with the Office of the Prosecutor and note the report of improved support from the Libyan authorities including the continued issuance of multiple entry-visas. We encourage continued cooperation as required by resolution 1970 (2011), underscoring that this is essential for the Office of the Prosecutor to fulfill its mandate.

The Office of the Prosecutor’s engagement with civil society and victim’s organizations also remains vital and we note and welcome enhanced efforts in this regard.

We welcome the indication that the Office will continue to support Libyan and other domestic authorities post 2025 to achieve accountability in accordance with the two-track approach outlined in its policy on Complementarity and Cooperation.

Mr. President

The reports of continued crimes against migrants including accounts of children in warehouses and detention centers remain of grave concern. We are encouraged that the Office is advancing and strengthening the investigation of crimes against migrants and commend the extensive engagement with third states and international and regional organizations, in this regard.

We also acknowledge the efforts of the Office of the Prosecutor to establish an in country office in Tripoli to strengthen its engagement with the Libyan authorities, survivors, and the families of the victims and note that this will remain a priority in the coming months.

We note the continued resource constraints of the Office and encourage States to continue their support in this regard.

In conclusion, Mr. President, Guyana commends the progress made by the Office of the Prosecutor during the reporting period despite challenges on the political and security fronts in Libya. We emphasize that the Court, its officials, and those cooperating with it must be able to operate free from threats and intimidation. The independence and integrity of the Court must be respected at all times.

Guyana reaffirms its unwavering support for the International Criminal Court.

I thank you