"We want the conclusion of this agreement to show that Poland fulfills its international obligations, especially in the area of prosecuting and punishing international crimes. Let it also be proof of the lasting support given to the Court," said Deputy Minister Maria Ejchart. She added that Russian aggression against Ukraine is an expression of contempt for international law, which requires a firm response.

"One of the key elements of Poland’s foreign policy is participation in building a stable and secure world where international relations are based on law, not force," emphasized Maria Ejchart.

On behalf of the Court, the agreement was signed by Judge Tomoko Akane, President of the ICC.

Strengthening Cooperation

The International Criminal Court is the first permanent international tribunal in history, established to prosecute perpetrators of the most serious crimes: genocide, aggression, and crimes against humanity. Poland ratified the ICC Statute in 2001 and actively cooperates with the Court. The signing of the agreement on the enforcement of sentences strengthens this cooperation. The entry into force of the agreement will enable the enforcement in Poland of prison sentences imposed by the ICC.

The Ministry of Justice will be the competent authority for implementing ICC requests. Upon receiving a request from the Court, the Minister of Justice will refer it to the appropriate Polish court, which will decide on accepting a specific convict and sentence for enforcement. Meanwhile, the ICC will have the authority to supervise the manner and conditions of imprisonment.

The signing of the agreement was the most important event during the Polish delegation's participation in the two-day (December 2-3) Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC. Deputy Minister Maria Ejchart participated in plenary sessions and numerous meetings, including with ICC leadership and delegations from the USA, the United Kingdom, and France.