On 20 January 2023, the International Criminal Court opened its judicial year. The President of the ICCBA, Ms. Marie-Hélène Proulx, the ICC President, the Prosecutor, and the Registrar, provided statements. The keynote speech was given by Mr Miguel de Serpa Soares, Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs and United Nations Legal Counsel.
Ms. Proulx said that the ICCBA pays tribute to the contribution of counsel, and their support staff. She further stated that the ICCBA is proud to represent them, and to voice their concerns and their demands before the organs of the Court, the Assembly of States Parties and the general public.
She highlighted that there can be no justice without a strong defence, and without meaningful representation of participating victims. And there can be no fair trial without equality of arms.
The full speech of the President of the ICCBA is available below.

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