In a startling revelation, Fatou Bensouda, the former chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), has shed light on the grave threats and intimidation she faced while pursuing some of the world’s most politically sensitive cases. Speaking at a recent event in London, Bensouda, who held the post from 2012 to 2021, offered a rare glimpse into the harrowing challenges she encountered behind the scenes.
“Thug-Style Tactics” and Direct Threats
Bensouda’s tenure at the ICC was marked by her unwavering commitment to investigating war crimes and crimes against humanity, even when it meant taking on some of the world’s most powerful actors. However, this pursuit of justice came at a personal cost. According to Bensouda, she and her family were subjected to “direct threats” while she was working on the court’s most politically charged cases.
The unacceptable thug-style tactics, threats, intimidation and even sanctions did not result in me or my office failing to fulfil our obligations.
Fatou Bensouda, former ICC chief prosecutor
Despite the grave nature of these threats, Bensouda emphasized that they did not deter her or her team from their mission. She remained steadfast in her commitment to the rule of law and the pursuit of accountability for the world’s worst crimes.
The Palestine and Afghanistan Investigations
The threats against Bensouda intensified during her work on two particularly sensitive cases: the investigation into alleged war crimes in the occupied Palestinian territories and the inquiry into war crimes in Afghanistan, including those allegedly committed by U.S. military personnel.
In 2015, Bensouda opened a preliminary inquiry into allegations of crimes committed by both Israeli forces and Palestinian militants in the occupied territories. This move drew intense backlash from Israel and its allies, who sought to discredit and obstruct the ICC’s work.
Similarly, the Afghanistan investigation, which included examining the conduct of U.S. forces, faced fierce opposition from the United States. In 2020, the Trump administration went so far as to impose sanctions on Bensouda and another senior ICC official in retaliation for the court’s work.
Defending the ICC’s Mission
Despite the immense pressures and personal risks, Bensouda remained resolute in her defense of the ICC and its crucial role in the international justice system. In her recent remarks, she underscored the importance of the court’s independence and the need for it to carry out its mandate without political interference.
The ICC must continue to do its jobs without political interference… It must not allow political calculations to factor into its decision making.
Fatou Bensouda, former ICC chief prosecutor
Bensouda’s revelations shed light on the daunting challenges faced by those seeking to hold the powerful accountable for international crimes. Her experiences underscore the critical importance of safeguarding the independence and integrity of institutions like the ICC in the face of relentless political pressure and personal threats.
A Legacy of Courage and Resilience
As Bensouda’s successor, Karim Khan, takes the helm at the ICC, he inherits a court that has weathered immense challenges and demonstrated remarkable resilience. Bensouda’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice, even in the face of grave personal risk.
Her revelations serve as a sobering reminder of the obstacles that still stand in the way of true accountability for international crimes. However, they also stand as a testament to the courage and determination of those who dedicate their lives to the cause of global justice, no matter the cost.
As the world grapples with ongoing conflicts and atrocities, the work of the ICC remains as vital as ever. Bensouda’s experiences underscore the need for the international community to stand firm in its support for the court and its mission, ensuring that those who commit the gravest crimes cannot escape accountability.
In the face of threats, intimidation, and political pressure, the pursuit of international justice requires the unwavering commitment and courage of individuals like Fatou Bensouda. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to all those who believe in the power of the law to bring light to the darkest corners of human conduct and to hold even the most powerful to account.
