In an interview with NHK, the director of the International Criminal Court, Hoffmanski, who is investigating war crimes suspected of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, said in an interview with NHK, "This is the first time such a large-scale investigation has been conducted, including evidence collection and victim protection. "This is a complex process that is taking place," and asked for the understanding and cooperation of the international community.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, the Netherlands, is divided into investigative and judicial departments, and is conducting full-scale investigations into war crimes and crimes against humanity that Russia is suspected to have committed in Ukraine.
In an interview with NHK in Tokyo on the 21st, Director Hofmanski, who is visiting Japan, said, "This is the first time such a large-scale investigation has been carried out since the ICC was established. There are hundreds of victims, and the perpetrators. It is expected that there will also be a considerable number, ”he said, revealing that it is the largest investigation since the ICC was established in 2003.
``The process of collecting evidence and protecting victims is becoming more complicated and more expensive,'' he said, adding that investigations take a long time and require financial support from various countries. and called for cooperation.
Since Russia is not a party to the treaty and cannot cooperate with the ICC, the focus is on whether it can pursue the responsibility of Russian military officials and government officials based on evidence gathered in Ukraine. , Director Hoffmanski only said, "If prosecuted, we will consider response."
Regarding Japan, which contributes the largest share to the ICC, Director Hoffmanski expressed his hope that Japan would "develop experts in international criminal law and provide human resources," and that Japan would like to strengthen cooperation. announced that it is considering a plan to set up a base in Japan.