Leidschendam, 4th March 2010 - The President of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Judge Antonio Cassese, has published the second STL Annual Report, which outlines the successes of the past year as well as the challenges that the Tribunal has faced.
"This has been a momentous year for the STL", said Judge Antonio Cassese. "The submission of the first indictment by the Prosecutor to the Pre-Trial Judge was highly significant and it marked the start of the judicial phase of the STL's life."
The Annual Report provides an overview of the work of all the organs within the Tribunal. Amongst the highlights of the past year has been the intensification of investigations by the Office of the Prosecutor, as well as the submission of an indictment.
The Defence Office has had an important role in judicial proceedings and has also drawn up a list of counsel who will be available to represent any accused. The Registry has once again ensured the efficient and smooth management of the Tribunal, with the Registrar being particularly active in fundraising.
During 2010-11 there were also several judicial developments, notably the landmark and unanimous ruling by the Appeals Chamber in February 2011, which clarified the definition of terrorism as well as the applicable law in trials at the STL.
In his conclusion to the Annual Report, Judge Antonio Cassese, underlines the challenges that the STL faces as it continues to fulfill its mandate. These include a difficult security environment, as well as the costs of ensuring that our work is both efficient and transparent.
Judge Cassese also outlines his vision for the STL over the coming year noting his desire for investigations to be completed and for all indictments to be submitted to the Pre-Trial Judge by the end of February 2012.
ENDS
