The United States has expressed its support for initiating negotiations on a convention concerning the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity. During the resumed session of the Sixth Committee, a representative from the U.S. addressed the International Law Commission's (ILC) recommendations.
"The United States recognizes that a convention on the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity could serve important purposes by strengthening the international legal framework for preventing and punishing crimes against humanity," stated the U.S. representative.
Over the past two years, discussions have been held during resumed sessions of the Sixth Committee, allowing member states to engage in comprehensive debates about draft articles related to this matter. The U.S. emphasized that these discussions have been beneficial, noting progress made so far.
In 2022, it was decided by the General Assembly that a decision would be taken during its 79th Session regarding this issue. The U.S. supports making a decision in October to commence negotiations on a convention addressing crimes against humanity.
Some delegations have pointed out existing differences among members concerning various substantive issues within the draft articles. However, "the United States does not view this as an obstacle to moving forward," despite acknowledging that significant substantive issues remain.
The U.S. argues that such differences should not hinder progress towards negotiating a convention but instead should be addressed through negotiation itself. "If substantive differences were to prevent the launching of a multilateral treaty negotiation, then there would never be such treaty negotiations at all."
The statement concluded with an emphasis on beginning negotiations without requiring consensus on all aspects beforehand.