THE NETHERLANDS ADRESS TO THE 49TH SESSION

TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE UNITED NATIONS

POSITION ABOUT INTERNATIONAL PERMANENT COURT INSTITUTION

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I also wish to say a few words about the aftermath of conflicts that could not be prevented : the punishment of those responsible for crimes against humanity.

It is of the utmost importance that these terrible crimes not only be condemned by the international community but also that those responsible for these crimes, as well as the actual perpetrators, be prosecuted. Strangely enough, this was done only at the end of the Second World War. But now at last, we see the establisment of an International Tribunal for crimes committed in the former Yugoslavia and the start of a broad discussion on a future Ttibunal for Rwanda. Punishment of war criminals matter of deterrence. Impunity encourages future crimes against humanity.

We therefore strongly support both tribunals, as well as the early establishment of an International Criminal Court which will exercise jurisdiction with regard to serious crimes of internationl concern. With the introduction of a draft statute for such an International Criminal Court a major step forward has been made.