MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
Australia has pledged a further $100,000 for the operations of the Special Court for Sierra Leone.
Set up jointly by the Government of Sierra Leone and the United Nations, the Special Court is mandated to try those who bear the greatest responsibility for serious violations of international humanitarian law, and the law of Sierra Leone, since November 1996.
The latest pledge brings Australia's total voluntary contributions to the Special Court to $300,000 since 2001, and recognises the Special Court's good progress to date in bringing violators of the laws to justice.
The funding is additional to support for the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone, to which Australia contributed more than $6 million in the 2004-2005 financial year.
Australia has also provided support of more than $13 million since 1999-2000 for the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, established after the Rwandan genocide of 1994.
Australia's aid program has an important role to play in promoting peace and stability because of the strong links between poverty and conflict.
A commitment to peace by all parties is central to successful outcomes but aid can play an important catalytic role by supporting peace processes, addressing grievances and assisting recovery.
The funding for the Sierra Leone Special Court will be provided through the $15 million Africa Governance Facility managed by AusAID, Australia's international aid agency.
Other support by Australia for improved governance in Africa includes assistance for democratic elections, voter education, trade policy development and liberalisation, and improved public administration.
Media inquiries:
Chris Kenny (Mr Downer's office) 0419 206 890
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590