ICC chief prosecutor backs special tribunal to address DRC’s ongoing cycle of violence

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor has called for the establishment of a special tribunal to address the persistent violence and atrocities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Despite the ICC’s efforts, including recent convictions, Karim Khan acknowledged that international courts have failed to halt the decades-long cycles of violence in the DRC, particularly in the eastern regions where armed groups like the M23, supported by Rwanda, continue to wreak havoc. “It does appear that Rome statute crimes have been and are being committed in the east of the DRC,” Khan said in an interview with France 24, adding that “it’s not just M23” that is concerned by the allegations of crimes.
Khan also expressed concern over the escalation of violence and endorsed the DRC government’s proposal for a new tribunal, which is set to be discussed at an international conference in April. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive, well-resourced judicial approach to address war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity in the country. Khan suggested that the tribunal could be a hybrid court, combining both international and local judges, with a focus on local ownership to ensure its relevance.
Khan also underscored the complexity of the conflict, with multiple armed groups involved across different regions of the DRC. He warned that without more consistent and holistic justice, the cycle of violence would continue. Amid growing criticism of international institutions, Khan reiterated the importance of maintaining the credibility of the ICC and delivering meaningful justice for the people of the DRC.