Opposition Over Resolution Blanket Immunity Increases:
U.S. Seeks Renewal of Exemption For Peacekeepers Despite Annan's Criticism

Washington, DC – The United States is continuing to push for the renewal of UN Security Council resolution 1487 exempting UN peacekeepers from the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court, despite widespread discontentment among Security Council members. The Security Council may begin deliberations on the matter as early as Thursday.

The resolution would renew the exemption granted to military and civilian personnel operating in UN missions under Resolutions 1422 and 1487 from 2002 and 2003. The resolution was initially passed at the UN after the U.S. vetoed the Bosnia peacekeeping mission and threatened to veto all UN peacekeeping missions until its demands were met.

“Today, the Court is up and running and demonstrating effectively that it is doing what is was designed to do: acting as the world’s safety net ensuring that the worst criminals do not go unpunished. Under the bright light of a fully functioning ICC, renewal of this resolution would be an unnecessary exercise serving only to waste valuable U.S. diplomatic capitol in the Security Council -- influence that would be far better used to ensure success in Iraq,” said Heather Hamilton, Vice President for Programs, Citizens for Global Solutions. “However, the Bush administration continues to make bad foreign policy decisions to satisfy a domestic election year need. Domestically, the administration does not want the more radical, anti-internationalist elements of its party to view this as them backing down on a policy position under pressure from the UN member states.”

Last year, three countries abstained from voting for the renewal of the resolution (France, Syria and Germany). This time around, the number of abstentions could be as high as seven, with Germany, France, Spain, Brazil, Chile, and Benin expected to abstain, and China and Romania on the fence. If seven or more countries abstain, the resolution will fail.

“Opposition to the Resolution is increasing. The UN and ICC member states have always felt such a resolution specifically exempting UN peacekeepers was unnecessary and illegal under the Rome Statue of the ICC,” said Maggie Gardner, International Law and Justice Program, Citizens for Global Solutions. “The Bush administration’s obsession with the Court and continued campaign against it is rubbing our allies the wrong way. As the Court continues to do worthy work and bring international criminals to trial, international opposition to the U.S. position will no doubt intensify. It is difficult for many Americans and the international community to understand the Bush administration’s fervent opposition to an institution of justice that is fairly and effectively tackling situations that truly shock the conscience of humanity.”

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For additional information please contact:
Heather Hamilton: 202-546-3950 ext. 107
Maggie Gardner: 202-546-3950 ext. 115