NZ should use leaders’ summit to further Syrian crisis ICC referral

The Green Party is calling for New Zealand to refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court (ICC) at President Obama’s Leaders’ Summit, following similar calls by the UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon.

At the UN General Assembly yesterday, Ban Ki Moon called for Syria to be referred to the ICC for the first time.

“The Green Party has repeatedly called for our Government to use its position as a member of the Security Council to pursue diplomatic and legal solutions in crisis areas such as Syria,” said Green Party global affairs spokesperson, Kennedy Graham.

“With John Key meeting world leaders at President Obama’s Leaders’ Summit and ISIL being on the agenda, it is the perfect opportunity to push for Syria to be referred to the ICC.

“With Ban Ki Moon also calling for the Syrian crisis to be referred and with New Zealand being on the Security Council, a call by John Key for an ICC referral could have influence.

“Military engagement will not solve the long-term and deep-seated issues. There must be investigation, accountability and redress. The Court is best placed to look into this, objectively and independently.

“It seems that the world leaders are finally starting to work together for a lasting solution to the Syrian crisis. It is a rare opportunity for New Zealand to push this issue,” said Dr Graham.

ENDS

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