Response To September 11 Terrorist Attacks World Federalists Of Canada The World Federalists of Canada, a non-governmental, membership organization, which has for fifty years concerned itself with issues of peace, international law, justice and global governance, is, like all the world, horrified with the events of Tuesday, September 11, 2001. We extend our sympathy, and prayers, to the victims, their loved ones and to the people and Government of the United States. We condemn this vicious attack and call for a determined effort on the part of the international community to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice. In so doing, we affirm that national responses to this crime be fully consistent with states' obligations under international law, including especially, but not limited to, the Charter of the United Nations and the laws and customs applicable in international armed conflict (i.e. the "Laws of War"). We call on the Government of Canada to continue its support for the rule of law and multilateral solutions to global problems. Clearly, this terrible crime - a crime against humanity - demonstrates the need for a more thorough international response to terrorism. One important element in future efforts to address terrorist threats should include a fundamentally strengthened system of international criminal justice. In this context, we are reinforced in our resolve to continue our work to bring about the early entry into force of the Rome Statute for an International Criminal Court. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is expected to be established in 2002 or 2003. It will be a permanent and independent tribunal, which will prosecute individuals who commit genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The ICC will further the cause of justice and peace by avoiding punishment of whole nations and innocent persons for crimes committed by a few individuals. The ICC is one important element in an emerging global system of international justice, one which also includes effective national legislation in a growing number of states, and a variety of UN-created ad hoc tribunals with national or regional jurisdiction. This evolution of an international criminal jurisdiction will be an important part of the world's long term response to non-state threats to international security such as the September 11 terrorist attack. Finally, we are mindful that times such as these call for increased efforts to promote inter-racial tolerance and understanding, in Canada and the world. World Federalists of Canada will continue to strive for institutions of global justice and democracy that can respond to diverse voices in our world community. These are vital tools in creating the necessary conditions of social and economic justice, thereby addressing many of the root causes of terrorism and armed conflict. ******* Note: The Rome Statute for an ICC was adopted by a vote of 120-7 on July 17, 1998. It has been signed by 139 states and ratified by 38. The Rome Statute will enter into force after 60 states have ratified the treaty.