Statement on the Occasion of the Second Crimea Platform Summit
August 23, 2022
The Public International Law & Policy Group (PILPG) welcomes the convening of today’s Second Crimea Platform Summit, a coordinated and consultation format initiated by President Zelensky aimed at improving the effectiveness of the international response to the ongoing occupation of Crimea.
This is an important and timely discussion to further strengthen the protection of the rights of those living in Crimea. It is also a welcomed opportunity to continue the discussion on the possibility of reversing and neutralizing the Russian Federation’s efforts to legitimize the illegal annexation of the territory in 2014.
PILPG applauds the efforts of President Zelensky, Ukrainian officials, and international partners' continued dedication to protecting victims and to preserving the territorial and environmental rights of those living in the Peninsula, especially during war.
PILPG reaffirms its deep commitment to supporting the people of Ukraine. In addition to PILPG’s pro bono expert assistance in reintegration and territorial integrity, PILPG remains steadfast in its work with Ukrainian stakeholders and other global law firms to collect statements and document evidence of atrocity crimes through the Ukraine Accountability Initiative to in time, hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes. PILPG also continues to provide free training resources for civil society organizations and individuals seeking to document the atrocities perpetrated in Ukraine. And in cooperation with Ukrainian partners, PILPG has published draft legislation for a High War Crimes Court to adjudicate cases of documented war crimes.
Acts of aggression such as the ones made by the Russian Federation in its annexation of Crimea and later full invasion of Ukraine cannot go without quick and forceful action on behalf of the international community. PILPG remains devoted to supporting the efforts and outcomes of the Second Crimea Platform Summit, as well as working towards a free and democratic Ukraine
PILPG Founder