Sierra Leone’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohamed Lamin Tarawalley, delivered compelling submissions at two key international gatherings on December 5, 2024, in The Hague. Speaking at the Public Hearing on the Advisory Opinion on Climate Change before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the 23rd Session of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP) of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Tarawalley emphasized Sierra Leone’s vulnerabilities and called for global collaboration to address pressing global challenges.
Addressing Climate Change at the ICJ
At the ICJ, Tarawalley spotlighted Sierra Leone’s heightened exposure to the devastating effects of climate change. He outlined how the nation’s geographical and coastal positioning leaves it prone to extreme weather events, coastal erosion, and recurrent flooding. Citing the catastrophic 2017 mudslides that claimed over 1,000 lives, he underscored the urgent need for robust international climate action.
“Climate change directly threatens fundamental human rights, including the right to life, health, food, water, and self-determination,” Tarawalley stated. He urged the international community to strengthen obligations toward climate action, particularly for vulnerable nations like Sierra Leone, which bear the brunt of these global challenges.
Advocating for Justice at the ICC
Later, at the ICC’s 23rd ASP session, Tarawalley praised the court for its efforts in ensuring accountability for grave international crimes. He commended the Review Mechanism’s steps to enhance the ICC’s efficiency and effectiveness and called for greater collaboration among state parties.
He highlighted the importance of victim facilitation and reinforced Sierra Leone’s commitment to advancing international criminal justice through its adherence to instruments such as the Rome Statute.
Collaborative Engagements
Tarawalley also held discussions with key ICC officials, including Prosecutor Karim A. Khan K.C. and Registrar Osvold Zavala Giler. During these meetings, he reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s unwavering support for the ICC and its initiatives to combat impunity for international crimes. He acknowledged the court’s resilience in addressing global challenges and pledged continued collaboration to enhance the delivery of justice on the international stage.
A Call for Global Action
The Attorney General’s contributions highlighted Sierra Leone’s dual focus on advocating for stronger climate action and reinforcing its role in international justice. His remarks serve as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of global challenges and the necessity for collective action to safeguard the rights and future of vulnerable nations.
These appearances cement Sierra Leone’s leadership in both climate advocacy and international justice, reflecting the nation’s broader commitment to global collaboration and sustainable development.
In addition to his address, the AG met with ICC Prosecutor Mr. Karim A. Khan K.C. for an in-depth discussion on the functioning of the court and Sierra Leone’s ongoing collaboration in combating impunity for international crimes. Tarawalley reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting the ICC’s work and complying with international instruments such as the Rome Statute to advance international criminal justice.
Tarawalley also had productive talks with ICC Registrar Osvold Zavala Giler, where he acknowledged the court’s resilience despite numerous challenges in fulfilling its duties.