Outreach in Kenya

In the situation in Kenya, the Court’s outreach activities started following the Prosecutor’s request to Pre-Trail Chamber II seeking authorisation to launch an investigation in relation to crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the period known as the post-election violence of 2007–2008.

Initial activities were carried out to promote understanding of the Court’s judicial process amongst local and international NGO representatives, women’s groups, journalists, and leaders and representatives of affected communities. Interactive sessions helped to clarify misconceptions, and facilitate affected communities to express their views with regard to the ICC intervention in their country, in compliance with the Chamber’s Order to the Victims Participation and Reparations Section Concerning Victims' Representations Pursuant to Article 15(3) of the Statute, of 10 December, 2009. A report on the representations was submitted to the Chamber in March 2010, and a redacted version was published on the Court’s website.

Following the decision of Pre Trial Chamber II granting the Prosecutor permission to start an investigation in Kenya, the Outreach Unit conducted its third mission to Kenya in order to explain the Court’s decision, discuss further steps of the judicial process and address the concerns of the population.

A plan for outreach for 2010 to 2011 for Kenya was prepared following consultations with key target groups and representatives of the affected communities. Drawing upon achievements and lessons learned throughout the years in other countries, the Outreach Unit will engage communities most affected by the alleged crimes committed in the country. Kenyans will be engaged through the Unit’s core programmes: the Community Outreach Programme including women and displaced populations; the Legal Outreach Programme for legal practitioners, bar associations and magistrates; the Academic Outreach Programme in particular schools and universities; and the Media Outreach Programme including traditional media, new media and vernacular radios. Information provided to the general public through media is an important component of the strategic plan, necessary to re-enforce the impact of outreach activities. In this regard, special efforts will be made to bring the judicial proceedings to affected communities, in real time, during key hearings such as first appearances, the first day of the confirmation of charges hearings and the commencement of trials.

Lastly, an initial survey to establish baseline indicators is being conducted in the geographical area where activities will take place. Plans will be adjusted accordingly, if need be.