In his inaugural address to the United Nations General Assembly, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten strongly defended the International Criminal Court (ICC) and underscored the necessity of safeguarding institutions that uphold international law. He cautioned that any attempts to undermine the ICC, headquartered in The Hague, could have detrimental effects on the broader international legal order.
Jetten’s remarks came amid ongoing concerns about global challenges to the ICC’s authority. He called on nations to resist such efforts, emphasizing the court’s pivotal role in maintaining legal accountability on the world stage. “Attacks on the ICC threaten the very fabric of international justice and order,” he warned, urging collective action to protect the institution’s integrity.
The Dutch Prime Minister also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the need for accountability in the face of Russia’s military actions. He expressed solidarity with Ukraine, which he noted has been compelled to defend itself against continued aggression. Jetten called for international efforts to hold Russia accountable, stressing that the rule of law must prevail to ensure peace and justice.
Reaffirming the Netherlands’ commitment to international institutions, Jetten highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law as a cornerstone of global peace and accountability. The speech reflects the Netherlands’ longstanding support for multilateralism and the international legal framework, particularly in times of geopolitical tension.
Jetten’s address to the UN General Assembly serves as a reminder of the critical role international legal bodies play in maintaining global order and justice. His call to action seeks to rally nations around the shared values of law and accountability, especially in addressing conflicts and upholding human rights.