INTERNATIONAL RESIDUAL MECHANISM FOR CRIMINAL TRIBUNALS
Delivered by Ms. Laura McIlhenny, First Secretary and Legal Adviser, Australian Mission to the United Nations, New York
Statement by Canada, Australia, and New Zealand (CANZ)
22 October 2025
Thank you, Madame President,
I have the honour today of speaking on behalf of Canada, New Zealand, and my own country, Australia.
CANZ countries reaffirm our unwavering support for the important work of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, which upholds the enduring legacies of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR).
These tribunals and the work of the Mechanism have been vital in combatting impunity for the most serious international crimes, bringing justice to victims and survivors and contributing to sustainable peace. The ICTR and ICTY leave behind a rich legacy that demonstrates what we can achieve when we all work together toward the common goal of accountability and ending impunity for those who commit serious international crimes in complex conflict situations.
CANZ remains steadfast in our commitment to accountability for serious international crimes. The Mechanism and the preceding tribunals serve as a reminder of how institutions can be utilised to realise accountability.
President, CANZ notes that the latest reporting period was the first full reporting cycle of the Mechanism with no active core crimes cases. As it approaches the final stage of its mandate, we acknowledge the Mechanism’s increased and careful focus on streamlining operations and planning for the future.
President, CANZ wishes to highlight the ongoing work of the Prosecution in monitoring, supporting and advising national judicial authorities in prosecuting international crimes arising out of the conflicts in Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia. Such national prosecutions are vital to ensuring justice for victims and survivors.
Finally, the Mechanism’s legacy for international criminal justice depends on the steadfast support and commitment of UN Members States, including as the Mechanism transitions into the truly residual phase of its lifespan. For our part, CANZ will continue to offer our full support to the Mechanism, to ensure that justice for victims and survivors of international crimes prevails.