News item | 28-03-2022 | 15:00
It is of great importance that European countries cooperate in collecting evidence for current and future criminal investigations, both at national and international level.
Today Minister of Justice and Security Yeşilgöz-Zegerius spoke at the so-called Vendôme group about European cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of international crimes. Specifically, ministers discussed the International Criminal Court (ICC) criminal investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine and the investigation and prosecution of IS terrorists.
“Many countries host refugees who may be able to testify in war crimes investigations. This concerns both refugees from Ukraine and Yazidis who have become victims of IS. We must deal with their testimonials in a careful and effective manner. So that important information is not lost and victims do not have to unnecessarily testify again and thus have to relive the most terrible events.”
according to Yeşilgöz-Zegerius.
Ministers reiterated their support for the ICC investigation in Ukraine. Yeşilgöz-Zegerius reiterated the Dutch pledge of financial support to the ICC and the sharing of knowledge and expertise gained by the Netherlands in the MH-17 investigation. The ministers also exchanged views on the use of video conferencing and trial in the region when it comes to detecting and prosecuting IS terrorists.
The Vendôme group is an informal meeting between the Dutch, Belgian, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Luxembourg justice ministers. This time, European Commissioner Reynders (Justice) also joined the consultation.