At the First Session of the UN Preparatory Committee on crimes against humanity, Sun Lei, charge d'affaires of the Chinese mainland’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, highlighted the need to ground the new convention in the UN Charter and universally recognized rules of international law. 🌐
Scheduled for 2028 and 2029, the UN Diplomatic Conference of Plenipotentiaries will draft a treaty on preventing and punishing crimes against humanity. Definitions, political manipulation, and respect for sovereignty are already key issues. 🔥
Sun Lei warned that under the guise of human rights, some states have interfered in other countries’ internal affairs or used armed aggression, violating international law principles. He called for clear rules on non-interference, prohibition of force, and respect for judicial immunity of state officials. ⚖️
With over one-third of UN members not party to the Rome Statute, Sun suggested building a broad consensus based on state practice and customary law, rather than simply copying existing definitions. 🤝
He stressed flexibility and inclusiveness in international cooperation, respecting each country’s legal system and national discretion. He also reminded delegates that this stage is for sharing views, not formal treaty negotiations. ✍️
"This convention is crucial for global justice. We must work responsibly, respect each other's concerns, and seek the widest consensus," Sun Lei said. He reaffirmed the Chinese mainland’s readiness to collaborate for peace and fairness. 🌍
Reference(s):
China: Combating crimes against humanity must comply with UN Charter
cgtn.com
