The Asser Institute and European Advisory Mission for Ukraine sign a cooperation agreement

The Asser Institute has signed a Cooperation agreement with the European Advisory Mission for Ukraine (EUAM Ukraine) to jointly develop a Knowledge Hub on International Criminal Law for Ukrainian Judiciary (‘the Hub’), a platform aimed at strengthening Ukraine's application of international humanitarian law (IHL) and international criminal law (ICL) in domestic courts.

EUAM Ukraine provides strategic advice and practical support to Ukrainian authorities to reform the civilian security sector, enhancing its efficiency, accountability, and public trust. Established in 2014, the mission also includes support for the investigation and prosecution of international crimes committed during Russia’s war against Ukraine. 

The partnership will focus on establishing an online platform and in-person capacity building activities of the Hub to promoting consistency in the application of IHL and ICL by Ukrainian courts, improving the fairness and credibility of conflict-related trials, particularly those involving war crimes. By aligning domestic judicial practice with international treaties and conventions, such as the European Convention on Human Rights, The Hub will strengthen Ukraine's cooperation with international institutions and enhance its legal integration with European and global standards—an important step towards European Union accession.

“I am much excited that the Asser Institute engages in this valuable and timely partnership, which further aids the development of the judicial system in Ukraine. Building on our previous work in capacity building in Ukraine, this initiative with EUAM Ukraine adds a vital component: providing readily and open access to resources on IHL and ICL application, and further facilitating the exchange of knowledge between Ukraine and European institutions. The Hub will deliver a substantial boost to accountability in Ukraine and contribute to a more resilient and accountable Europe”. Kasper Vrolijk, Managing Director, Asser Institute

“Ukrainian judges are carrying a heavy load. Every day they deal with war-crimes cases, and they must be able to rely on clear, trustworthy advice grounded in international law. This partnership with the Asser Institute gives them exactly that - clear guidance, shared expertise and a space to have an exchange about the best international practice. In the end, this is about fair trials, stronger institutions and justice that people can trust. And it is also about Ukraine’s future in Europe. A justice system aligned with international standards is a cornerstone of that future.” - Thomas KOERNER, Head of International Crimes Legal Unit, EUAM Ukraine

This collaboration is made possible by the ‘Restoring Dignity and Justice in Ukraine’ programme, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, and implemented by a consortium led by the International Development Law Organization (IDLO) in partnership with the Asser Institute, the Center for International Legal Cooperation (CILC), and the Netherlands Helsinki Committee (NHC).