Press Release: 14 December 2020

 

Government of Belgium contributes €525,000 to the Trust Fund for Victims

 

Photo: Beneficiaries of Trust Fund for Victims assistance projects in northern Uganda ©Will Boase

 

Today, it is with great pleasure and heartfelt gratitude that The Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) announces that the Government of Belgium, through its Federal Public Service of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation and Federal Public Service of Justice, has allocated a voluntary contribution of €525,000 in total to the TFV and its mission. Such a generous donation illustrates Belgium’s firm commitment to the Rome Statute, the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and to reparative justice.

Belgium has long being a strong supporter of the TFV but this significant, unrestricted contribution, gives great encouragement and will have a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have suffered unspeakable acts and trauma from conflict. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the TFV’s  mission has been particularly challenging this year and this contribution will be essential in its efforts to continue reaching victim survivors.

Speaking on Belgium’s support and this contribution for the TFV at the 19th session of the ICC Assembly of the States Parties,  Minister Sophie Wilmès, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs said “During the COVID-19 crisis, armed conflicts have continued to cause victims. This pandemic shows us how essential it is to unite and protect those who are the weakest. The International Criminal Court pays specific attention to those that are the most vulnerable: the victims. The Court allows them to be recognized as such and to be treated with dignity. Belgium is strongly committed to the role of the Court in that regard: this is why Belgium decided to contribute 525 000 € in total to the Trust Fund for Victims in 2020 and will continue its regular financial support to the Fund in 2021.”

TFV Executive Director Pieter De Baan thanked the Belgian Government saying “Belgium’s contribution this year is tremendously generous, as well as inspiring. It is a powerful demonstration of victim solidarity, central to the Rome Statute system. Especially in these tough times, we cannot leave behind those already having to deal with the harmful consequences of the most serious crimes.”

For more information about the Trust Fund for Victims, please contact: trustfundforvictims@icc-cpi.int or visit: www.trustfundforvictims.org