© Photo by Linh Do via Flickr
- Australia: Supreme Court Reinvestigates the Croatian Six Case
- Pakistan: Supreme Court Resumes Military Trials of Imran Khan’s Supporters
- USA: Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Hiding War Crimes Charges from the US Immigration
- KSC: Appeals Panel Reduces Salih Mustafa’s War Crimes Sentence to 22 Years
- Germany and the Netherlands: Four Arrested on Suspicion of Cross-Border Hamas Terrorism Plot
- Hong Kong: As Part of Crackdown on Dissent, Authorities Announce Million Dollar Arrest Bounties on Five Overseas Activists
- Uganda: 42 Families Face Injustice as Court Decision Favours Eviction for Uganda’s Tilenga Oil Project
- Netherlands: Court Denies Petition against F-35 Parts Delivery to Israel
- France: Lafarge Faces Legal Action Over Alleged ISIS Support
- Hong Kong: HRW Report Urges Authorities to Drop Accusations Against Jimmy Lai
INTERNATIONAL PEACE AND SECURITY SECTION
- Mali: MINUSMA Officially Depart Mali
- UN: Upcoming DRC Elections Amid Rising Insecurity
- Jordan and Syria: Jordanian Army Kills Several Drug Smugglers on Syrian Border
- Gaza: UN General Assembly Overwhelming Vote for Humanitarian Ceasefire
- Pakistan: At Least 23 Killed as Fighters Storm Military Post in North West
- Nagorno-Karabakh: In a Bid to Reach Normalisation, Armenia and Azerbaijan Exchange POWs
- EU: 26 Countries Except Hungary Agree Upon Opening Accession Talks with Ukraine
- Guyana and Venezuela: Both States Agree to Refrain from Threats or Use of Force as to Dispute Over Contested Essequibo
INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE SECTION
Australia: Supreme Court Reinvestigates the Croatian Six Case
On 11 December 2023, a judicial inquiry in New South Wales (NSW) Supreme Court was re-examining the evidence more than 40 years after six Croatian-Australian men were convicted in one of Australia’s longest criminal prosecutions to check if there was a breach of justice. In 1981, it was determined that the men had planned to bomb locations in Sydney. The investigation was launched in response to misgivings and questions raised concerning the evidence presented by police officers and a key witness suspected of having ties to the former Yugoslav Intelligence Service. Lawyers for three of the men express hope that their names will be cleared and the reputations of Croatian-Australians engaged in the case will be restored. The probe will also look into the convictions of the other three members of the “Croatian Six.” They were sentenced to 15 years in jail after a 172-day trial and served 10 years before being released in 1991. Despite unsuccessful legal challenges, a court inquiry was ordered in 2022, citing concerns regarding evidence and the accused’s guilt, including the possibility of false testimony by a key witness in the initial conviction.
Pakistan: Supreme Court Resumes Military Trials of Imran Khan’s Supporters
On 13 December 2023, Pakistan’s Supreme Court permitted military courts to resume trials for over 100 supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who were charged with attacking military installations during violent protests following Khan’s arrest in May. This decision follows a previous halt to the trial by five judges from the same court about two months ago, part of a crackdown on Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. The unrest ceased after Khan’s release, ordered by the Supreme Court. Although Khan, 71, is serving three sentences in a high-security prison in Rawalpindi and was ousted as prime minister in April 2022, he is not facing a military trial for incitement to violence. Recent developments indicate confusion in Khan’s legal proceedings, with an indictment on charges of revealing official secrets being delayed until Thursday, according to his lawyer, Salman Safdar. The case revolves around Khan’s statement at a post-election rally in 2022, where he showed a confidential diplomatic memo alleging a US conspiracy in his removal by the Pakistani military and government, something the United States and Pakistani officials deny. The document, known as Cipher, reportedly contained diplomatic correspondence between the Pakistani ambassador to Washington and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad.
USA: Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Hiding War Crimes Charges from the US Immigration
On 13 December 2023, Jugoslav Vidic pleaded guilty to possessing a fraudulently obtained green card, concealing his war crime charges in Croatia before migrating to the United States. Vidic falsely claimed on his application for US permanent residency that he had no prior charges and omitted details of his military service during the Yugoslav Civil War. Despite being charged with a war crime in Croatia in 1994, he successfully gained lawful permanent status and a green card in 2005 through deceptive statements. Vidic admitted to these lies, acknowledging his 1998 conviction in absentia for cutting off a civilian’s arm during a 1991 attack. He is scheduled for sentencing on 29 May 2024, and as part of the plea deal, he agreed to removal from the United States after any imposed sentence. The investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, and international cooperation with Croatian authorities. The Justice Department emphasised its commitment to holding individuals accountable for human rights violations and fraudulent immigration practices.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/man-pleads-guilty-concealing-war-crime-charge-croatia
KSC: Appeals Panel Reduces Salih Mustafa’s War Crimes Sentence to 22 Years
On 14 December 2023, the Court of Appeals Panel for the Kosovo Specialist Chambers (KSC) delivered its first appeal judgment in the case of the Specialist Prosecutor v. Salih Mustafa, addressing war crimes. His appeal, consisting of nine grounds, saw eight dismissed, yet the Appeals Panel partially granted his challenge to the Trial Panel’s 26-year sentence, reducing it to 22 years. Noting the gravity of the crimes, the Panel stressed that the reduction doesn’t diminish their severity. The judgment, viewed as a significant step towards justice and accountability, highlighted that neither the KLA nor the Kosovo people were responsible for the crimes. Mustafa’s individual responsibility for war crimes, including torture, arbitrary detention, and murder, was confirmed. The Appeals Panel’s decision did not affect the Reparation Order, and Mustafa, arrested in 2020, awaits a 22-year imprisonment. The indictment linked him to war crimes committed in 1999, involving the mistreatment of detainees at the Zllash/Zlaš detention compound.
https://www.scp-ks.org/en/appeals-panel-pronounces-judgment-salih-mustafa-case
Germany and the Netherlands: Four Arrested on Suspicion of Cross-Border Hamas Terrorism Plot
On 14 December 2023, four people were arrested in Germany and the Netherlands on suspicion of being part of a cross-border Hamas terror plot, which, according to German prosecutors, aimed at obtaining weapons to target Jewish institutions across Europe. According to the office of Germany’s federal prosecutor, the three men had been detained in Berlin, while the fourth was in Rotterdam. The persons arrested had been described as “longstanding embers of Hamas” having links to its military wing and “have participated in Hamas operations abroad”. The three arrested will be brought before a judge on 15 December. According to German prosecutors, the four people arrested were aiming to obtain weapons to attack Jewish institutions. They had been in search of them since spring on the orders of Hamas leaders based in Lebanon.
Hong Kong: As Part of Crackdown on Dissent, Authorities Announce Million Dollar Arrest Bounties on Five Overseas Activists
On 14 December 2023, it was reported that the Hong Kong police has offered million-dollar bounties for any information that would lead to the arrest of five overseas-based activists, which is part of the crackdown on dissent under a China-imposed national security law. According to Steve Li, an officer with the Hong Kong Police’s National Security Department, all activists who have fled overseas have continued to commit offences under the imposed national security law. They have been accused of various offences under the security law, which includes incitement, secession and subversion. The national security law was imposed in 2020 by Beijing in the aftermath of anti-government protests. Under the law, acts that include subversion, secession, collusion with foreign forces, and terrorism are punishable with punishment up to life in prison. The move by Hong Kong has been highly criticised, with Matthew Miller, Spokesperson for the US State Department, condemning the actions and urging that it shows a “blatant disregard for international norms, for democracy and human rights”. While David Cameron, UK foreign secretary, stated that any such attempt by any foreign powers “to intimidate, harass or harm individuals or communities in the UK” would not be tolerated, urging that it was a threat to their democracy.
Uganda: 42 Families Face Injustice as Court Decision Favours Eviction for Uganda’s Tilenga Oil Project
On 15 December 2023, the High Court in Hoima, Uganda, ruled in a case filed by the Ministry of Energy against 42 households resisting eviction for the Total Energies-operated Tilenga oil project. The court granted permission for the government to deposit compensation and take possession of the disputed land, causing strong reactions and allegations of injustice. Critics, including affected parties and NGOs, raised concerns about the lack of notice and fairness in the proceedings. The families, facing inadequate compensation since 2014, expressed disappointment, particularly as the valuation documents relied on were from 2019 and potentially outdated. The same judge who ruled against them in 2014 presided over the case, prompting suspicions of bias. The affected families plan to appeal, emphasising the need for a fair resolution that considers their rights amidst the significant impact of the oil project.
https://www.justiceinfo.net/en/126058-total-uganda-42-families-expropriated-summary-trial.html
Netherlands: Court Denies Petition against F-35 Parts Delivery to Israel
On 15 December 2023, a Dutch court in the Hague rejected a petition filed by Human Rights Organisations against the delivery of F-35 fighter jet parts used by Israel in the Gaza conflict. The court said on Friday that it would not halt the shipments, citing the fact that the decision to deliver the parts is essentially political and that courts should not meddle. The US-owned F-35 parts are held in the Netherlands and shipped to other partners, including Israel. Human rights organisations such as Amnesty International and Oxfam contended that the Netherlands’ participation in the Gaza war made them complicit in the conflict. However, the court emphasised that the issues at hand are political and that the justices must accept the minister’s discretion. Because the deliveries are part of a US-run operation, the Dutch government claimed it lacked the ability to intervene. The administration claimed that there is no evidence that Israel’s F-35s are implicated in grave violations of humanitarian law. Liesbeth Zegveld, a human rights lawyer, refuted this argument, claiming that the Dutch government is aware of the enormous destruction in Gaza. The administration further argued that Israel could simply find the parts elsewhere if the Dutch would not furnish them.
France: Lafarge Faces Legal Action Over Alleged ISIS Support
On 15 December 2023, Hundreds of Yazidi Americans, including Nobel Peace Prize winner Nadia Murad, filed a class-action lawsuit against French cement maker Lafarge, accusing the business of enabling ISIL (ISIS) violence. The Yazidis, who were victims of ISIL atrocities in Iraq, claim Lafarge plotted to provide material support to the terrorist organisation. According to the lawsuit, Lafarge helped and encouraged ISIS’s acts of international terrorism by providing cash and cement for the construction of tunnels and bunkers utilised by the group. The petitioners, who are represented by human rights lawyer Amal Clooney and others, are seeking restitution for the victims. According to the law firm Jenner & Block, Lafarge previously admitted to assisting ISIL and pleaded guilty to providing money to designated terrorist organisations. This lawsuit follows similar legal action by families of US soldiers and aid workers against Lafarge.
Hong Kong: HRW Report Urges Authorities to Drop Accusations Against Jimmy Lai
On 15 December 2023, Human Rights Watch (HRW) published a report which urged Hong Kong authorities to drop spurious accusations against Jimmy Lai, the creator of the pro-democracy publication Apple Daily, and free him. Lai, 76, is scheduled to face an 80-day national security trial beginning 18 December 2023. He is accused of three counts of “foreign collusion” and sedition under the National Security Act and could face life in prison. HRW has called for international involvement, citing worries about the deterioration of journalistic freedom and the harsh application of the National Security Law. Lai has been imprisoned in solitary confinement for over 1 200 days, which has raised concerns about his health, and his legal team has suffered threats and cyberattacks.
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/12/15/hong-kong-free-pro-democracy-publisher-jimmy-lai
INTERNATIONAL PEACE AND SECURITY SECTION
Mali: MINUSMA Officially Depart Mali
On 11 December 2023, the United Nations concluded its decade-long peacekeeping mission (MINUSMA) in Mali, responding to the government’s claim that the force was insufficient to address the escalating threat of violent extremism in the country. Mali, struggling with an Islamic extremist insurgency since 2012, has experienced the deadliest peacekeeping mission globally, with over 300 personnel casualties. Despite a French-led military operation expelling extremists from northern cities in 2013, rebels regrouped in the desert, prompting attacks on the Malian army and the UN force. The junta, ruling Mali requested the UN mission’s departure in June 2023, asserting it did not meet the country’s security needs. The mission commander expressed confidence in Mali’s security forces, emphasising positive achievements despite resource limitations. Critics argue the peacekeeping force failed to bring stability, particularly in the north. Concerns mount over the diminishing welcome for UN peacekeeping in parts of Africa, exemplified by Congo’s recent request for the withdrawal of a mission. The UN’s peacekeeping official defended missions globally but acknowledged financial constraints.
https://apnews.com/article/mali-un-peacekeeping-extremism-ffd9c0ebe51e8db820ddc41a101c8d98
UN: Upcoming DRC Elections Amid Rising Insecurity
On 11 December 2023, with just nine days remaining until the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) presidential elections, the UN peacekeeping mission head, Bintou Keita, reported a mix of progress and escalating insecurity. Keita highlighted steady advancements in the electoral process, including logistical support from MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission. However, challenges such as security issues, logistical complexities, and financial constraints persist. Escalating crises involving the M23 group in the east and new insecurity pockets in various regions, including Greater Katanga and North Kivu, pose significant concerns. Keita expressed worry about rising tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, heightening the risk of military confrontation. While election preparations are underway, additional concerns are arising over the voters’ roll publication, violent clashes, intimidation against women candidates, and the spread of misinformation. Furthermore, the humanitarian situation is dire, with over 6.3 million internally displaced people and renewed hostilities exacerbating crises. Keita urged donors to address the underfunded Humanitarian Response Plan for 2023. Despite the complexities, Keita asserted that the challenges are not insurmountable and emphasised the Congolese people’s aspiration for transparent and inclusive governance, seeking international community support.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/12/1144667
Jordan and Syria: Jordanian Army Kills Several Drug Smugglers on Syrian Border
On 12 December 2023, the Jordanian army announced its killing of several drug smugglers near the Syrian border as part of efforts to combat the trade of the highly addictive drug, Captagon. The amphetamine-like stimulant, mass-produced in Syria, is channelled through Jordan into the Gulf states, generating significant revenue for Syria’s government and Iran-aligned militias controlling southern Syria. During a border clash, dozens of drug runners crossed into Jordan from Syria, engaging in a shootout with Jordanian border guards amid reduced visibility from the dense fog. The army reported the death of one Jordanian officer and “several” drug dealers, with one soldier injured. Smugglers often transport Captagon into Jordan en route to wealthy Gulf states. Jordan accuses Hezbollah and Iran-allied militias of orchestrating the smuggling networks, a claim denied by Hezbollah. In response to the drug trade, Jordan has conducted strikes against Iran-linked drug factories in Syrian territory. With concerns about increased smuggling during winter, Jordan seeks to safeguard its borders and curb the drug trade, receiving promises of additional military aid from the United States in return.
Gaza: UN General Assembly Overwhelming Vote for Humanitarian Ceasefire
On 12 December 2023, of the 193 member states in the UN General Assembly, 153 supported the resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The United States faced increasing isolation after the decisive vote with only 10, including the US, Israel, and Austria, voting against, and 23, including the UK and Germany, abstaining. The resolution expressed grave concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for protection for both Israeli and Palestinian civilians under international law. The previous resolution on 27 October 2023 had 120 votes in favour. The US vetoed an almost identically worded resolution proposed at the UN Security Council on 8 December 2023, highlighting the growing isolation of the Biden administration. Attempts to amend the resolution failed. The Palestinian envoy to the UN emphasised the global desire for an end to Israel’s bombardment, while the US delegation attempted to balance support for Israel with concern for Palestinian civilians. Egypt warned of the potential for a full-fledged catastrophe, and Pakistan’s UN ambassador criticised Israel for a “one-sided slaughter.” Israel’s relentless assault on Gaza has left more than 18 000 Palestinians dead, with up to 70% of the fatalities being women and children. The US president’s staunch support for Israel has led to international exposure and criticism.
Pakistan: At Least 23 Killed as Fighters Storm Military Post in North West
On 12 December 2023, militants attacked a military post in Daraban, northwest Pakistan, killing at least 23 people in a coordinated assault involving gunfire and a suicide bomb, according to the Pakistani military. The assailants targeted a police station, initially ramming a vehicle filled with explosives into the main gate before executing a suicide bombing. The resulting blasts caused a building collapse, leading to numerous casualties. Six attackers were reportedly killed. The Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP), claiming affiliation with the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), asserted responsibility for the assault, emphasising its targeting of the Pakistani army. Dera Ismail Khan, the location of the attack, was formerly a TTP stronghold which seeks to overthrow the government and replace it with their harsh religious laws. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the province where the incident occurred, has experienced increased violence with several deadly attacks. The TTP which, although a separate group, is closely aligned with the Taliban in Afghanistan and authorities attribute the surge in attacks to militants operating openly in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s 2021 takeover.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/12/12/894
Nagorno-Karabakh: In a Bid to Reach Normalisation, Armenia and Azerbaijan Exchange POWs
On 13 December 2023, as a step towards normalisation, Armenia and Azerbaijan traded prisoners of war (POW) at their borders. The move came three months after Azerbaijan had achieved a decisive breakthrough in the decades-old conflict. The exchange of prisoners that took place released 32 Armenians who had been captured in late 2020, while Armenia released two Azerbaijani soldiers who had been held since April. Both countries had announced in the past week that “they reconfirm their intention to normalise relations and to reach a peace treaty based on respect for the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.” Both countries had also released a statement regarding the release of POWs.
EU: 26 Countries Except Hungary Agree Upon Opening Accession Talks with Ukraine
On 14 December 2023, the Guardian reported that the European Union decided to open the membership negotiations with Ukraine, with 26 countries agreeing; the Hungarian prime minister, Viktor Orban, urged that he would veto any opening of the accession talks. According to diplomats, Orban left the room when the decision of Ukraine to join the bloc was made. While Mr Orban states that giving EU membership to Ukraine is a “bad decision”. He has further urged that Ukraine should not receive large funds from the EU as it is not part of the bloc. As a result of the decision, the Hungarian prime minister blocked $54 billion of EU funding to Ukraine. As a last-minute concession, the European Commission, the EU’s executive, agreed to unblock $11 billion to aid Ukraine.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-67724357
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/12/15/hungary-blocks-54bn-eu-financial-aid-for-ukraine
Guyana and Venezuela: Both States Agree to Refrain from Threats or Use of Force as to Dispute Over Contested Essequibo
On 15 December 2023, it was reported that Guyana and Venezuela promised not to use threats or force against each other but failed to reach an agreement over the contested border region of Essequibo. Instead of an agreement, a joint commission consisting of foreign ministers of both countries and other officials would address the problem and present a report within three months. According to an 11-point declaration at a press briefing, the presidents of both countries agreed to meet again in Brazil within three months. The declaration further highlighted that according to Guyana, the International Court of Justice in the Netherlands should resolve the issue. At the same time, Venezuela disagrees as it does not recognise the court or its jurisdiction in the dispute. Guyana’s government issued a statement before the press conference highlighting that the Essequibo “is not up for discussion, negotiation or deliberation.”
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/15/guyana-and-venezuela-dispute-force-promise