EI5: “T”
End Impunity is asking five international justice advocates from around the world five “simple” questions about their personal connection to the issue and the unique perspective that their region of the world provides them.
1. Why is the issue of international justice important to you?
Thank you for these important questions. The issue of international justice is very important because it is the only way to solve problems in a country that is not respecting the law. Throughout its history, Sudan has had no independent courts.
2. Does the region from where you are from have a particular perspective and attitude towards justice? How has this influenced you?
Yes, frankly all the marginalized people in my region have the same attitude. All of them are looking towards the ICC, and their perspective is that there is no other court that can bring justice but the ICC.
3. What are some successes and some failures of the International Criminal Court?
The success is that they ordered the capture of al-Basheer, but they are still waiting to catch him. We hope that this happens soon. The failure is that the UN Security Council does not help the ICC, and there are no forces that can participate in capturing the criminal. Countries are not doing this either, so what power will the ICC use to capture one of the 21st century’s greatest murderer?
4. Who are some of the perpetrators of mass crimes that you think should be indicted by the ICC? Do you think it will ever happen? Why?
There are many major criminals that should be indicted by the ICC. There are over fifty in Sudan that have committed atrocities against innocent people, and we can’t forget some of the rebel leaders and other elements. They should be indicted. Assistance must be given to the marginalized and victims.
5. How can the regular citizen from around the world play a part in the fight for international justice?
Citizens have a very important part to play because today change comes from citizens. As we’ve seen in many countries, it is regular people that are helping to throw out the bad regimes . It is the regular citizen that makes international justice move forward.
Thank you so much for sharing my thoughts with others.
T
T is a Darfuri refugee living in a camp in Eastern Chad. He is a teacher and a leader. When the Janjaweed militia (backed by Sudanese military forces) attacked his village and surrounding region, he led over 7,500 innocent civilians to safety. He has experienced torture and repression. He is a husband and father — and a strong believer in justice, trusting it will be the force that brings his people back home and allow for the re-building of a stronger Darfur.
