ICC PAYS TRIBUTE TO RWANDAN VICTIMS

ICC Pays Tribute to Rwandan Victims

(Reissued as received.)

THE HAGUE, 7 April (ICC) -- Upon the occasion of the tenth Anniversary of the Genocide in Rwanda, the International Criminal Court held this morning a commemorative event in memory of the victims.

On behalf of the International Criminal Court the following statement was delivered by President Philippe Kirsch:

“Ten years ago, the world community was awakened to one of the worst episodes of genocide in modern times.  An estimated 800,000 people were killed in Rwanda.  This tragedy merits our attention today as we remember all those who lost their lives in the spring of 1994.

“On behalf of the ICC, I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the people of Rwanda for their losses.  We cannot undo what has been done.  But we may pay homage to the memories of those who are no longer able to speak to what happened.

“What happened in Rwanda was tragic not only for the victims and their families, but also for the international community as a whole.  The world was reminded that acts of genocide are not limited to the distant past.  It is partly due to international outrage at the events in Rwanda that the International Criminal Court stands here today.

“Through the ICC’s proceedings, those who commit such serious crimes will be held accountable.  We wish to bear witness to the experiences of victims so that what happened to them will not be forgotten.  The ICC will give a voice to victims of the most heinous crimes.  Those who suffered most will have the chance to take part in the process of doing justice; their voices will not be ignored.

“And as we remember those who have died in Rwanda, we also look forward to a future where these types of crimes might be prevented.  As we now light a candle and share a minute of silence, let us remember the victims of Rwanda and those they left behind.”

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