News item | 4/18/2023 | 4:00 pm
The trial of ISIS terrorists and war criminals is a high priority for the Netherlands. Proper gathering of evidence is essential in this respect. Much of that evidence can be found where the crimes were committed and the victims were made. Minister of Justice and Security Yesilgöz-Zegerius has today a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with United Nations Special Adviser (UNITAD) Christian Ritscher.
UNITAD investigates, among other things, serious crimes, such as crimes against humanity and war crimes, committed by ISIS. UNITAD makes the collected evidence available for national prosecution and trial. The conclusion of an MoU will make it easier for the Netherlands to exchange information for investigations into international crimes. This increases the chance of detection and prosecution of crimes committed by ISIS.
“Terrorist acts and serious international crimes must not go unpunished. People who have knowingly and willingly left our country to join a struggle aimed at destroying our freedom. Or people who have sought refuge in the Netherlands after committing the most serious violations of international law. These people should not escape punishment. Intensive cooperation with UNITAD, the Dutch Public Prosecution Service and the police, among others, has taken the desire for justice one step further. Victims deserve that perpetrators are brought to justice,” said Yesilgöz-Zegerius.
Good evidence gathering is important in prosecuting ISIS terrorists. That is why the minister visited UNITAD in Baghdad in May 2022. During the visit, the conclusion of a bilateral agreement was discussed. The agreements now made make it easier for the police and the Public Prosecution Service to assess on a case-by-case basis whether national law allows them to share relevant information with UNITAD.
In addition to facilitating the current form of cooperation, the MoU also sends an important signal that we strive to consolidate and expand the cooperative relationship. In order to make even more use of the opportunities for cooperation with UNITAD and to be able to make an active contribution to the evidence bank of UNITAD, among others, the Netherlands wants to conclude a treaty in the future.