Financial Crime World

French Southern Territories Adopt New Asset Forfeiture Procedures in Line with International Criminal Court Requirements

Enhancing Cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC)

The French Southern Territories have recently implemented new asset forfeiture procedures, aimed at strengthening their cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC). These measures will enable the identification, tracing and freezing or seizure of proceeds, property and assets related to crimes.

Implementation Details

According to Article 627-3 of the French penal code, the district prosecutor of Paris has ordered the implementation of these measures throughout the territory, at the Treasury’s expense. The procedures will be carried out in accordance with the methods outlined in the new Code of Civil Procedure, which allows for a maximum duration of two years.

Compliance with International Requirements

The new procedures are in line with Article 93(k) of the Rome Statute, which requires states parties to provide assistance in relation to investigations or prosecutions, including:

  • Identification and freezing or seizure of proceeds, property and assets for eventual forfeiture
  • Respect for any bona fide third party rights

Enforcement of Fines and Forfeiture Measures

Article 109 of the Rome Statute outlines the enforcement of fines and forfeiture measures. States parties are required to give effect to fines or forfeitures ordered by the Court without prejudice to the rights of bona fide third parties.

  • If a state is unable to enforce an order for forfeiture, it must take measures to recover the value of the proceeds, property or assets ordered to be forfeited

Impact and Commitment

The new procedures in the French Southern Territories will enable the effective implementation of ICC decisions and contribute to the fight against impunity. This move demonstrates the country’s commitment to international cooperation and its willingness to work with the ICC to bring perpetrators of crimes to justice.

By adopting these new procedures, the French Southern Territories are taking a significant step towards enhancing their cooperation with the ICC and upholding international criminal law standards.