Colombia’s Justice Efforts Recognized by International Criminal Court

Colombia has garnered commendation from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for its steadfast endeavors in matters of justice and cooperation towards fostering peace. Prosecutor Karim Khan convened with Colombia’s Acting Foreign Minister, Luis Gilberto Murillo, in Bogota on April 25th to formally announce the signing of an accord aimed at bolstering cooperation in judicial affairs.

At the event, the ICC prosecutor had words of praise: “Colombia’s example and the diligent efforts of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP), notwithstanding persisting challenges, must be recognized. It is a country that has done so much and has sought to consistently apply the law. We continue to work with the people, with the Government of Colombia, and with its institutions. I consider, and I have said it around the world, that the example we see here is an example for the world.”

Colombia’s Acting Foreign Minister, Luis Gilberto Murillo, expressed acclaim for the reaffirmation of cooperative ties, particularly emphasizing the pivotal role of victims. “Additionally, with the agreement, we have the firm purpose of seeking the most effective way to restore the victims and survivors of heinous crimes that our painful history shows us, but which also gives us the courage to move forward and build a better country,” elucidated Murillo.

ICC commends Colombia’s JEP efforts

Prosecutor Khan, in his discourse, also reminisced about his decision in 2021 to conclude the preliminary examination in Colombia, a process aimed at assessing the efficacy of the nation’s judicial apparatus, considering that the country was meeting its international obligations after 17 years of observation. “The JEP, the ordinary courts, through their joint efforts in fulfilling the requirements of the Constitution, have been recognized by the Nobel Prize. It is something that I have also recognized when I closed the preliminary examination,” he indicated during his visit.

With the recognition given to the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP), it was also highlighted that this transitional justice mechanism has international importance and any regression in this trajectory would not only be untenable but also tantamount to a disregard for the painstaking groundwork laid thus far.

The JEP investigates thousands of crimes against humanity and war crimes involving former FARC guerrillas, members of the security forces, state agents, and civilians. In exchange for full disclosure of truth, the court extends benefits to participants, which may encompass sanctions other than incarceration, such as participation in victim reparation projects.

The meeting was especially significant as it was part of the launch of the International Criminal Court’s new global policy called ‘Positive Reciprocity.’ In attendance were dignitaries including the Minister of Justice, the president of the JEP, the president of the Council of State, the Attorney General, and the Deputy Prosecutor General of the Nation.