Foreign Office Minister welcomes delivery of ECCC judgement
Hugo Swire welcomes today’s ECCC verdict, delivering justice for victims of Khmer Rouge, as a milestone in the fight against impunity.
The Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) today delivered a judgement on alleged crimes against humanity in Case 002/01 related to the forced movement of the population from Phnom Pehn and other regions.
Foreign Office Minister, Hugo Swire, said:
I welcome the delivery today of the verdict and sentence for the first phase in the trial of the most senior surviving members of the Khmer Rouge regime at the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC). This is an important moment for Cambodia and the international fight against impunity as the millions of victims of the Khmer Rouge see the delivery of long awaited justice for crimes against humanity including the forced expulsion of the population across Cambodia. This verdict has sent a clear message that those who commit the most appalling atrocities will be held to account.
The ECCC’s important work goes on now with the second phase of this trial dealing with crimes of genocide, forced marriage and rape. The UK and international partners will continue to work with Cambodia to ensure the Court completes its crucial work.
Further information
The Extraordinary Chambers of the Court of Cambodia (ECCC) today delivered a verdict in Case 002/01. The defendants in Case 002 are the most senior surviving members of the Khmer Rouge regime. Both defendants were found guilty of crimes against humanity and sentenced to life imprisonment.
The trial commenced in June 2011, initially trying four accused. In November 2011 the Court decided that leng Thirith was unfit to stand trial and in March 2013 Ieng Sary died and proceedings against him were terminated. Today’s verdict relates to the two remaining accused, Khieu Samphan (Head of State of Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge) and Nuon Chea (second most senior Khmer Rouge official after Pol Pot) and covers crimes against humanity including the forced movements of population, and executions of Cambodian soldiers and officials at Tuol Po Chrey.
The court will now hear the second phase of this trial dealing with crimes of genocide, forced marriage, and rape.
The UK has been a consistent supporter of the ECCC and made a voluntary contribution of £920,000 in FY 2013/14.
For more information, see the ECCC’s website
Follow the Foreign Office on twitter @foreignoffice