The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Deputy Prosecutor, Nazhat Shameem Khan, recently concluded a vital two-day visit to eastern Chad, from July 6 to 7. Her mission centered on engaging directly with Darfuri communities displaced by the conflict in Sudan, as part of the ICC’s ongoing inquiry into the situation in Darfur.
Accompanied by a delegation from the Prosecutor’s Office, Ms. Khan meticulously gathered firsthand accounts from survivors and victims. She emphasized the importance of these voices, stating, « We want to ensure that the voices of these brave victims are reflected in the work of the ICC. »
The refugee camps in eastern Chad currently provide sanctuary for tens of thousands of Sudanese individuals who have fled the brutal violence in Darfur, particularly from West Darfur. The Deputy Prosecutor reiterated the gravity of the crimes that have been thoroughly documented: sexual violence used as a weapon of war, summary executions, torture, and widespread forced displacement. She clarified that these heinous atrocities form a core part of a priority ICC investigation, which has been active for several years and recently bolstered by renewed deployments on the ground.
In a filmed address delivered from the field, she underscored the enduring impact of these crimes: « The harm caused by atrocious crimes is not limited to a rape, an execution or a torture. It has now been 20 years that you are in these camps and that you continue to suffer the consequences. We understand that. »
The mission extended to N’Djamena, where discussions were held with Chadian authorities. Nazhat Shameem Khan met with Abdoulaye Sabre Fadoul, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and African Integration, and Ndolenodji Alixe Naimbaye, the Minister of Justice. Their conversations focused on enhancing cooperation between Chad and the ICC, particularly concerning gender-related crimes and ensuring access to crucial witnesses.
Chad, which serves as the primary host nation for Darfuri refugees, reaffirmed its unwavering support for the ICC’s activities regarding the Darfur situation.
This significant visit comes as the ICC intensifies its investigations into crimes perpetrated in Darfur, notably those attributed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and other armed factions. Deputy Prosecutor Khan consistently informs the United Nations Security Council about the persistent occurrence of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including targeted attacks on civilians, camps for displaced persons, and vital humanitarian convoys.
The ICC is committed to meticulously documenting these violations, gathering direct testimonies while simultaneously guaranteeing the safety and protection of victims and witnesses, with particular attention to women and survivors of sexual violence.
Through this on-the-ground engagement, the ICC reasserts its firm resolve to combat impunity and to anchor international justice in the lived experiences and testimonies of victims. Chadian authorities and the Court have mutually agreed to continue and deepen their collaborative efforts.
