The International Criminal Bar Annual General Assembly 2017 - Valencia

The International Criminal Bar - Barreau Pénal International - Colegio de Abogados Penal Internacional - held its annual conference in Valencia, Spain at the ‘Illustrious College of Advocats of Valencia’ on February 3rd to 4th.

The ICC President, Judge Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi, was guest speaker.

In her address to the General Assembly of the ICB, the ICC President highlighted the ICB's fundamental contribution to consolidate the role of the defence at an international level. "Since its creation, the International Criminal Bar has made fundamental contributions to the independence and effectiveness of counsel before the International Criminal Court," said President Fernández.

"Lawyers occupy a central role at the International Criminal Court, and are involved in every aspect of its functioning, notably as counsel for suspects, the accused and the victims. Hence, the independence and quality of our lawyers is of paramount importance for the Court,".

ICCBA President, David Hooper, also gave a presentation of the founding and objectives of the ICCBA, stressing our intention to work closely and effectively with other bars. President Fernández spoke warmly of the ICCBA and the steps it was taking.

The ICCBA intends to hold a meeting with national, international and specialist bars on the 29th March 2017 at the ICC at The Hague (TBC).