Supreme Judicial Council Highlights Importance of International Crimes Law in Ensuring Justice and Accountability

The Supreme Judicial Council affirmed on Thursday that the draft law on international crimes represents a pivotal moment to prevent impunity and ensure justice for victims. A council statement indicated participation in a workshop titled "Shaping Justice in Iraq," organized in cooperation with the Yazda organization, dedicated to discussing the draft international crimes law. The workshop aimed to address the priorities of survivors and civil society, review proposed legal recommendations, identify priority amendments, and agree on follow-up steps to support the legislative process. Judicial supervisor Judge Nasser Imran emphasized that the council views the draft law not merely as an ordinary addition to national legislation but as a critical stage reflecting Iraq's firm commitment to preventing impunity and delivering justice to victims. Imran added that the council's vision focuses on aligning national legislation with established principles of international criminal law to ensure prosecution of the gravest crimes, including genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes, thereby upholding the rule of law and national justice. He confirmed that the Iraqi judiciary, under the leadership of the Supreme Judicial Council's president and thanks to the expertise and impartiality of its judges, continues its noble mission and regards this draft law as a qualitative step that strengthens citizens' and the international community's confidence in the judicial system. The workshop saw broad participation from members of parliament, government representatives, victims from the Survivors’ Network, civil society organizations, legal experts, as well as representatives from diplomatic missions and United Nations agencies.