EU backs ICC after US revokes prosecutor’s visa | Nairalaw

The EU on Saturday declared its support for the International
Criminal Court, voicing “serious concern” after the US revoked the
chief prosecutor’s visa over a possible investigation into American
soldiers’ actions in Afghanistan.

Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda’s office confirmed on Friday that
Washington had revoked her visa for entry into the US — a move that
came after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced restrictions
on ICC staff who probe US or allied personnel.

A spokesperson for the EU’s diplomatic service said the bloc
“fully supports the ICC and its independence” and said Brussels
expects the US to comply with its “international obligations”
towards the court.

“The European Union reiterates its serious concern about the US
policy towards the ICC,” the spokesperson said in a statement.

“The ICC plays a key role in the fight against impunity. The EU
emphasises that protecting the neutrality and judicial independence
of the ICC is paramount to its effectiveness and proper
functioning.”

Bensouda asked ICC judges in November 2017 for authorisation to
open an investigation into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan by the
Taliban, Afghan government forces and international forces
including US troops.

The court has not yet decided whether to launch a full-blown
probe.

The US has never joined the ICC and does not recognise its
authority over American citizens, saying it poses a threat to
national sovereignty. Washington also argues that it has its own
robust procedures in place to deal with US troops who engage in
misconduct.

(AFP)