United Nations General Assembly: Prevention of armed conflict - Item 31(a)

Statement delivered by First Secretary, Rachael Pringle

Mr President,

I would like to start by thanking the Head of the Mechanism, Catherine Marchi-Uhel for presenting the tenth report of the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism for crimes committed in the Syrian Arab Republic. New Zealand appreciates the opportunity to discuss the important work of the Mechanism in this plenary meeting of the General Assembly.

New Zealand reiterates its strong support for the Mechanism and the essential work it continues to do in pursuit of justice and accountability for international crimes committed in Syria. The efforts of the Mechanism are critical to prevent impunity in Syria and provide justice for victims and survivors. Justice and accountability for international crimes is fundamental to sustainable peace.

New Zealand is pleased to observe from the report that further important progress is being made toward the fulfilment of the Mechanism's mandate. New Zealand commends the assistance the Mechanism has provided to competent jurisdictions. New Zealand sees the increased demand for assistance from competent jurisdictions as testament to the value of the work the Mechanism is doing.

New Zealand commends the Mechanism's victim/survivor centred approach, and the further development and implementation of its thematic strategies on gender, children and youth and broader justice objectives. New Zealand also commends the Mechanism's expanded and intensified cooperation with civil society actors as important enablers of the victim/survivor centred approach.

In a period marked by significant conflicts and crises around the world it is important that the need for justice and accountability in Syria is not forgotten.

Mr President, we will continue to follow the work of the Mechanism closely. The Mechanism can continue to count on New Zealand's support.

Finally, New Zealand would like to thank Ms Marchi-Uhel for her work during her tenure as Head of the IIIM. We would also like to wish her successor, Mr Robert Petit, all the best when he takes over the role.

Thank you.

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