UN Panel Approves First Treaty to Punish Crimes Against Humanity

• The UN General Assembly committee has approved a resolution paving the way for negotiations on a first-ever treaty on preventing and punishing crimes against humanity.

• The resolution was approved by consensus by the General Assembly’s legal committee, which includes all 193-member UN nations.

• The resolution is expected to be adopted when the General Assembly puts it to a final vote on December 4.

• The resolution sends a crucial message that impunity for crimes against civilians will not go unheeded.

• The resolution calls for preparatory sessions in 2026 and 2027, and three-week negotiating sessions in 2028 and 2029.