17 December 2024
Myanmar faces mounting international legal scrutiny as Belgium formally intervenes in the ongoing genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The case, initiated by The Gambia in 2019, accuses Myanmar of committing genocide against its Rohingya minority, invoking the 1948 Genocide Convention.
Belgiumโs intervention, filed on 12 December 2024, focuses on the interpretation of Article II of the Genocide Convention, which defines acts constituting genocide. This move, permitted under Article 63 of the ICJ Statute, strengthens the case against Myanmar by emphasizing the treatyโs binding obligations.
The ICJ has invited both The Gambia and Myanmar to submit written observations regarding Belgiumโs declaration. The Court previously ruled in 2022 that it had jurisdiction over the case, rejecting Myanmarโs objections and clearing the way for a full hearing. In 2020, the Court also imposed provisional measures requiring Myanmar to protect the Rohingya population and preserve evidence related to alleged atrocities.
Several nations, including Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom, have already joined the proceedings, reflecting broad international concern over Myanmar's actions. The latest intervention highlights increasing international efforts to hold Myanmar accountable for alleged crimes against the Rohingya.
The ICJ continues to review submissions, with key rulings expected in the coming months. Myanmar remains under international legal pressure as the case proceeds.โฉ
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