The Czech Republic Delivered a Statement on Behalf of the Slavkov Format Countries on Universal Jurisdiction
21.10.2026 / 16:48 | Aktualizováno: 21.10.2026 / 16:51
On 14 October 2026, the Czech Republic delivered a joint statement in the Sixth Committee of the United Nations General Assembly on behalf of the Slavkov Format (S3) countries, namely Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic, during the discussion on the scope and application of the principle of universal jurisdiction.
In their statement, the S3 countries emphasized that universal jurisdiction is an important tool in the fight against impunity for the most serious crimes under international law. It enables the prosecution of perpetrators of such crimes regardless of where the crime was committed or the nationality of the perpetrator or the victim, thereby complementing the work of international courts and tribunals.
The Slavkov Format countries also highlighted the differing approaches of States to the application of universal jurisdiction and stressed the need for greater legal clarity regarding its definition, scope and limits. In this context, they supported entrusting further study of the topic to the United Nations International Law Commission, which could contribute to its expert and depoliticized consideration.
The Czech Republic, together with the other S3 countries, reaffirmed its commitment to continue actively participating in discussions on universal jurisdiction and to support international efforts aimed at strengthening accountability for the most serious international crimes.
The full national statement is attached below.