45. My Office's investigations into alleged crimes under the Rome Statute committed in Libya are hampered by the on-going insecurity in the country, which still prevents my teams from operating within Libya.
46. Insufficient resources also continue to be a major problem. The Office receives different forms of support, from members of the Council and States Parties for its work. However, the modest financial resources which must be spread across all situations currently under investigation by my Office must be increased to ensure we have adequate means to achieve our mandated mission.
47. Failure to execute arrest warrants issued by the Court also remains a major challenge. Members of this Council, as well as other States, including non-States Parties, have the responsibility to ensure timely arrest and surrender of all Libyan suspects.
48. Despite these challenges, the announcement of the two arrest warrants in the last eight months – one for crimes committed during 2011 and the other for crimes perpetrated more recently – should clearly demonstrate that my Office continues to be fully engaged in Libya and is determined to contribute to achieving real progress towards a culture of accountability for crimes under the Rome Statute committed in Libya.
49. The progress we have made and our achievements to date are a result of the commitment and expertise of my staff, as well as the strong and collaborative relationships we have developed with key actors. My Office continues to receive vital support from a number of States, including The Netherlands, Tunisia, Italy, and the United Kingdom, as well as international organisations and other actors, such as UNSMIL and Interpol. The exemplary efforts of these States and organisations deserve recognition. More of the same is required with others joining to contribute.
50. In addition, the Libyan Prosecutor-General's office remains a strong and valued partner in our investigation activities. And, as always, I remain grateful to citizens of Libya and all individuals and organisations who are committed to the goals of the ICC.
51. I am acutely aware that peace and stability in Libya will require action, support and commitment from different actors. Ensuring justice for victims of serious crimes perpetrated in Libya, and bringing to account those who have committed or ordered atrocities, remain critical factors for sustainable peace in a country that has been plagued by conflict for far too long.
52. Libya will remain a priority for my Office in 2018. I, along with my team, are determined to fulfil the responsibility entrusted to my Office by the Rome Statute vis-à-vis Libya, following the Council's referral pursuant to Resolution 1970.
53. My Office will continue to do its part. As we do, we count on the critical support of this Council, UN member states, and States Parties to the Rome Statute.
54. Suspects against whom ICC warrants of arrest have been issued must be arrested and transferred to the Court to stand trial.
55. We have a collective responsibility to cultivate a culture of accountability for Rome Statute crimes in Libya and to deter the commission of future crimes.
56. Continued failure to do so is to deny victims of grave crimes committed in Libya, the justice they so rightly deserve. Inaction will also embolden those already committing crimes and would-be perpetrators by signalling that impunity will reign; that they are beyond the reach of the law. This, we cannot allow.
57. I thank you, Mr President, Your Excellencies, for your attention.
(Source: Office of the Prosecutor)
