-Unofficial Translation-
Costa Rica supports initiative to investigate before the International Criminal Court the possible commission of crimes against humanity in Venezuela October 16th, 2018
The Government of the Republic of Costa Rica announces its support for the initiative to investigate the possible commission of crimes against humanity in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Costa Rica, faithful to its traditional defense for the promotion and protection of human rights, peace and democracy, has decided to second the demarche (efforts, initiative) of Argentina, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay and Peru, to denounce the Venezuelan government of Nicolás Maduro , before the International Criminal Court (ICC). This was announced on Tuesday by the President of the Republic, Carlos Alvarado, during a press conference held in San José. "Pursuant of its historic fight against impunity, Costa Rica supports the efforts, presented on September 26, 2018, by six countries in America, based on article 14.2 of the Rome Statute, in which they request the Prosecutor's Office initiate an investigation into the possible commission of crimes against humanity, which may have occurred as of February 12, 2014.", said the President. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship highlights the existence of a preliminary investigation, opened by the ICC Prosecutor's Office since February 8, 2018, in which alleged crimes are investigated in the context of demonstrations and political disturbances; in particular the excessive use of force by state security teams, arrests of members of the opposition, as well as abuses and mistreatment in detention. Costa Rica trusts in the Court´s independence that as a permanent institution of international criminal justice, will make the necessary examination and take the measures that merit this situation. It also reiterates its unrestricted support for international criminal justice. The Government of the Republic of Costa Rica calls on the authorities of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to comply with the international obligations acquired by accessing the international legal instruments of Human Rights, so that fundamental freedoms are respected, political prisoners are released and impunity is ended. It also appeals to follow the recommendations of the Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, of June 22, 2018, and of the various mechanisms of Human Rights. The State of Costa Rica reiterates its commitment to collaborate with the ICC and announces that it will continue to use the multilateral forums and available diplomatic channels to contribute to overcoming the serious crisis that Venezuela is experiencing, through a peaceful and negotiated solution within the framework of the International Law.