Cox's Bazar, Nov 26 (V7N)- Karim Khan, Chief Counsel of the International Criminal Court (ICC), visited the Rohingya camps in Ukhia, Cox's Bazar, as part of the ICC’s ongoing investigation into crimes against humanity committed during the mass expulsion of Rohingya from Myanmar's Rakhine state.

Arriving at Kutupalong Rohingya Camp No. 1 on Tuesday morning, Karim Khan, accompanied by a 15-member delegation, began his visit at Lambashia camp. He engaged with Rohingya leaders there from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Later, the delegation proceeded to Camp-4, where discussions with the Rohingya community continued until 2:00 PM. The team departed the camp at 2:30 PM.

In the afternoon, Karim Khan is scheduled to hold meetings at the Cox's Bazar Refugee, Relief, and Repatriation Commissioner's office to discuss the findings and next steps in the investigation.

Background of the ICC Investigation
The ICC is investigating allegations of crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute, focusing on the forced displacement of the Rohingya from Rakhine State in Myanmar. Bangladesh, as a signatory to the Rome Statute, has facilitated the ICC’s investigation by allowing evidence collection and collaboration with relevant authorities. Myanmar, however, is not a signatory to the statute.

During his visit to Bangladesh, scheduled from November 25 to 28, Karim Khan is expected to meet with various stakeholders and provide directives regarding the investigation.

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tawfiq Hasan, mentioned last week that the ICC Prosecutor’s Office is in the final stages of approving the "Witness Protection Protocol" to ensure the safety and security of witnesses involved in the investigation.

International Context and Bangladesh's Role
Bangladesh plays a critical role in the ICC investigation, offering access to Rohingya refugees who have fled Myanmar since the crisis escalated in 2017. The ICC aims to determine whether crimes such as forced displacement, persecution, and violence against the Rohingya constitute crimes against humanity.

While Bangladesh has signed an agreement with the ICC for evidence collection, Myanmar’s refusal to accede to the Rome Statute complicates the process of holding perpetrators accountable.

Karim Khan’s last visit to Bangladesh in July 2023 marked significant progress in the investigation. His return underscores the ICC's commitment to pursuing justice for the Rohingya people and ensuring accountability for crimes against humanity.

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