ICC Confirmation Hearing - Week 1: Thomas Lubanga Dyilo

Introduction

In the first case to be heard before the International Criminal Court (ICC) Thomas Lubanga Dyilo of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is charged under Article 8 of the Rome Statute (hereinafter the Statute) with the war crimes of enlisting and conscripting children under the age of fifteen years and using them to participate actively in hostilities.

The following report is an overview of some of the main issues raised during the first five days of the confirmation hearing, at which the judges of the Pre-Trial Chamber must determine whether there is sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial. In the absence of public court transcripts at the time of writing, this report is based on unofficial notes taken during the confirmation hearing.

Background to the confirmation hearing
Opening remarks of Judge Jorda
Defence Preliminary Issues and Opening Statement
Prosecution Opening Statement and Evidence
The Representation of Victims in the Proceedings
Looking Ahead