Statement to the Sixth Committee, Resumed Session on Crimes Against Humanity
during the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
Agenda item 80: Crimes against humanity
Recommendation of the International Law Commission (ILC)
New York, 4 April 2024
Mr. Chair,
As stated previously, the Holy See supports the conclusion of a universal, multilateral, legally binding instrument on the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity, on the basis of existing customary law, with a view to upholding the dignity of every human person, promoting international cooperation and ending impunity for perpetrators.
Given the importance of achieving universal adherence, it is imperative that the new instrument be adopted by consensus. In particular, in the area of the definition of the crimes, the negotiations should follow scrupulously the existing customary norms, without seeking to innovate. At the same time, any future negotiations should be open to all States, and not just UN member States.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.