Dutch parties differ over EU response to US sanctions on ICC

D66 MP Hanneke van der Werf called for the Dutch government to seek use of the EU’s ‘blocking statute’ if the US takes further steps against the International Criminal Court (ICC). ANP describes the measure as a European ban on complying with foreign rules. [1]

In a parliamentary debate on sanctions against the ICC, Van der Werf said the Netherlands had responded cautiously to earlier US measures for fear of escalation. She argued that the approach had not worked. [1]

CDA MP Maes van Lanschot said the EU measure should be considered only if the court’s work was significantly impeded. He argued that it could be used only once, making its timing crucial. [1]