In order to establish a stronger presence in Asia, which is currently represented by an incomplete representation among the 123 members of the court, Piotr Hoffmanski, the president of the International Criminal Court, emphasized his keenness to establish a new regional office for the court in Japan, to be the first of its kind outside of the Hague.
In an interview with the Japanese news agency (Kyodo) in Tokyo, which was published today, Friday, the President of the International Criminal Court said, “Personally, I will make sure that the International Criminal Court has a permanent presence in the region, especially in Japan.” This was during his first visit to Japan since taking office in 2021.
However, he stated his hope that the formation of such an office will assist “strengthen the function of the International Criminal Court in Japan and the area.” He noted that this suggestion is a “temporary solution” that is still being studied.
He claimed that in addition to encouraging more Japanese professionals to apply for jobs at the International Criminal Court, the regional office should create a mechanism for teaching staff members about international criminal law in Japanese universities and law schools.
The budget for fiscal year 2022 includes 3 billion yen, or $20 million, from Japan, one of the largest financial shareholders in the International Criminal Court. Additionally, Japan contributes to the court’s functioning by sending two general prosecutors to assist with cases.
Despite the fact that several significant nations including the United States, China, India, and Indonesia are not members, the International Criminal Court has 123 member states, including 19 from the Asia and Pacific region.
Japan is the first potential regional office for the court outside of The Hague to cement a stronger presence in Asia, according to the President of the International Criminal Court.
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