Malta’s Historic Vote: Joining ICC After Election

Imagine standing on the bustling Republic Street in Valletta, the sun casting a warm glow on the historic buildings, and knowing that Malta is on the cusp of making history. That’s the reality we’re facing as our government prepares to join the International Criminal Court (ICC) to prosecute Russian President Vladimir Putin, but not before the upcoming election.

Malta’s U-turn on ICC

Malta’s decision to join the ICC after initially pulling out in 2012 is a significant shift in our foreign policy. Back then, the government cited concerns about the ICC’s effectiveness and the potential for politically motivated prosecutions. Now, with the atrocities committed in Ukraine weighing heavily on the global conscience, Malta is ready to rejoin the fold.

Prime Minister Robert Abela announced the decision at a press conference in Castille Square, stating, “Malta will not stand idly by while war crimes are committed. We are joining the ICC to ensure justice is served.” This move aligns Malta with the majority of EU member states, all of whom are ICC members.

Prosecuting Putin: A Long Shot or a Moral Stance?

The ICC’s prosecutor, Karim Khan, has already opened an investigation into possible war crimes in Ukraine. However, prosecuting Putin presents a unique challenge. As a head of state, Putin enjoys immunity from prosecution in the ICC under international law. But the ICC can prosecute individuals who commit war crimes even if they are not directly targeted.

Malta’s Foreign Minister, Evarist Bartolo, clarified, “Joining the ICC is about sending a strong moral message. It’s about saying that we stand with Ukraine and that we will not tolerate war crimes.” While the prospects of prosecuting Putin might be slim, Malta’s move is a clear signal of our commitment to international justice.

Elections First, ICC Later

Malta’s election, scheduled for March 2023, will come first. The government has made it clear that the ICC ratification process will wait until after the election. This has raised eyebrows among some political observers, who question whether this is a strategic move to gain votes or a genuine commitment to justice.

Opposition leader Bernard Grech has criticized the government’s timing, stating, “The government should have prioritized justice over politics. They should have joined the ICC immediately, not as a pre-election stunt.” However, the government maintains that the election schedule will not delay Malta’s commitment to the ICC.

As we stand on the brink of history, Malta’s decision to join the ICC is a testament to our evolving role on the global stage. Whether it’s a calculated political move or a genuine commitment to justice, one thing is clear: Malta is ready to take a stand.