What is the EU Day Against Impunity?

The EU Day Against Impunity is held every year on May 23. It highlights the importance of holding perpetrators of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity accountable. The day shows Europe’s strong commitment to justice and international law.

This observance is led by Eurojust in cooperation with the EU Genocide Network. It brings together prosecutors, policymakers, civil society, and international partners. The message is clear: there is no place in Europe for impunity for the most serious crimes.

History and Origin

The first EU Day Against Impunity was marked in 2016, during the Dutch Presidency of the Council of the European Union. It took place at Eurojust in The Hague, with participation from European institutions and national authorities. The aim was to strengthen cooperation and improve justice efforts within the EU and beyond.

The day focuses on supporting investigations and prosecutions for atrocity crimes committed anywhere in the world. Many of these crimes are handled under universal jurisdiction, meaning EU countries can act even if the crimes happened outside their borders. The day helps raise awareness of these efforts and encourages stronger legal frameworks and better victim support.

Who Participates in the EU Day Against Impunity?

• Eurojust and EU institutions: Coordinate events and support judicial cooperation.
• National prosecutors and courts: Share expertise and strengthen international justice efforts.
• Civil society organisations: Advocate for justice and support victims and survivors.
• Universities and legal experts: Host panels and publish research to raise awareness.
• The public: Follows the events and engages with messages of justice and accountability.

Colors:

• Dark red symbolises the gravity of these crimes.
• White represents peace, justice, and transparency.
• Black is used in remembrance of victims.

Symbols:

• Scales of justice highlight the rule of law.
• Broken chains represent freedom from oppression.
• Olive branches symbolise peace and reconciliation.

Patterns:

• Barbed wire designs reflect the suffering of victims.
• Geometric patterns represent justice systems and structured cooperation.
• Abstract ripples show how accountability can affect entire societies.

Slogans and Themes

Themes focus on justice, accountability, and remembrance. Common messages include “No safe haven for war criminals,” “Justice across borders,” and “Ending impunity is our shared duty.” These reflect the idea that serious crimes must always be met with serious consequences.

Most Used Hashtags

• #EUAgainstImpunity
• #EndImpunity
• #JusticeMatters
• #StandForJustice
• #VictimsRights

How to Celebrate the EU Day Against Impunity

• Attend events: Follow public lectures, panels, or webinars organised by Eurojust or legal institutions.
• Share awareness: Use social media to highlight facts, survivor stories, or legal progress.
• Support justice efforts: Learn about and support organisations working on international justice.
• Reflect and remember: Take time to honour victims of war crimes and atrocities.
• Engage locally: Organise school or university discussions about justice and human rights.

Why is the EU Day Against Impunity Important?

Justice matters, especially for crimes that shock the conscience of humanity. The EU Day Against Impunity affirms that serious crimes must not go unanswered. It is a message to victims that their voices are heard. It is a message to perpetrators that they will be pursued.

This day strengthens legal cooperation and raises awareness among citizens. It supports a world where accountability is not an exception but a rule. Justice is not only about punishment. It is about dignity, trust in institutions, and building a future where such crimes no longer happen.