The Ljubljana-Hague Convention adopted

Following intense negotiations involving nearly 300 experts in public international law and international criminal law, the MLA Conference successfully ratified the Ljubljana-Hague Convention after two weeks of deliberation. This groundbreaking treaty will facilitate international cooperation among nations in the investigation and prosecution of the most severe international crimes, marking a significant milestone in the realm of international criminal law since the establishment of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.

Addressing the conference participants, Minister Fajon hailed the adoption of the Ljubljana-Hague Convention as a historic achievement in diplomacy and international law. She emphasized that the treaty represents a substantial leap forward in the collective fight against impunity and the pursuit of justice for the victims of grave crimes. Minister Fajon, speaking on behalf of the initiative's core group consisting of Slovenia, Argentina, Belgium, Mongolia, the Netherlands, and Senegal, declared that the Convention would strengthen cooperation among all States Parties in the investigation and prosecution of serious international crimes. Moreover, it would contribute significantly to the promotion of the rule of law and the global campaign against impunity. Minister Fajon concluded her closing address by sending a resounding message to future victims of heinous crimes, assuring them that impunity will no longer prevail and that justice will prevail.

Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominika Švarc Pipan, also addressed the conference, emphasizing the Convention's significance in safeguarding human dignity, fundamental rights, and the rule of law. She acknowledged the united front displayed by nations in their commitment to ending impunity globally and underlined the Convention's role in bridging legal gaps regarding international legal aid and extradition. The Ljubljana-Hague Convention, according to Dr. Švarc Pipan, establishes a comprehensive framework for worldwide cooperation, demonstrating the collective resolve to combat international crimes.

Minister Fajon expressed gratitude on behalf of Slovenia to the group of initiating countries, recognizing their decade-long efforts and hard work leading to the Convention's adoption. She also extended appreciation to all supporting nations and conference participants who contributed to the treaty's adoption and the successful organization of the largest diplomatic conference in Slovenia's history.

Comprising 87 articles, along with the preamble, general provisions, and final provisions, the Ljubljana-Hague Convention encompasses seven chapters outlining central cooperation bodies, definitions, the status of victims, witnesses, experts, and other individuals, international legal assistance and extradition procedures, the transfer of convicted persons, and dispute settlement procedures.

Notably, the initiative to adopt the Convention on International Cooperation in the Investigation and Prosecution of Genocide, Crimes against Humanity, War Crimes, and Other International Crimes, now known as the Ljubljana-Hague Convention, has gained the support of 80 countries, demonstrating the widespread recognition and commitment to combatting international crimes.