Video message by King Willem-Alexander at the opening of the ‘Conference Restoring Justice for Ukraine’, The Hague
Watch video message on YouTube
While our countries have different backgrounds, we share a strong conviction. We all believe firmly in a rule-based international order. And we stand united in our defense of right over might.
Human rights, freedom and peace are the cornerstones of the world order we seek to build.
And it is crystal clear that there can be no lasting peace without justice.
It is unacceptable for perpetrators of international crimes to escape their punishment. Those responsible for the crimes committed against Ukraine and its people must be held to account.
Therefore, it is of great importance that you are participating in this conference focusing on restoring justice for Ukraine. On behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, I welcome you all warmly.
Our hearts go out to the Ukrainian people who have been withstanding Russia’s aggression for so long. Russia’s war in Ukraine is an outrage. Not only to the victims. But also to the values that we all stand for. It is an assault on everything that we hold dear.
By attending this conference, you are sending the people of Ukraine a message of hope.
You are expressing that they are not alone. That we as international community are on their side, now and in the future.
Together, we have been laying the groundwork that is needed to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions. The establishment of the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression and of the Register of Damage for Ukraine, are just two examples.
But there is still a lot of work to be done. Today, you will be building on the solid foundations which have been laid.
We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Our aim is to restore justice.
Our goal is to bring peace to Ukraine.
United, we are strong. I wish you all a most productive conference.