Message of Congratulations on IAP’s 27th Anniversary from President
6/6/2022
Dear fellow prosecutors,
6 June marks the 27th anniversary of the IAP. I would like to join all of you to congratulate the prosecutors of the world on this important day.
In more than two years, we now see the end of the long and dark tunnel of the pandemic and a full recovery is in sight. Thus, for the first time since 2020, the IAP hosted the 53rd Executive Committee meeting last April face to face in Syracuse, Italy. And in May, the 4th IAP Africa and Indian Ocean Regional Conference was held in Mombasa, Kenya with more than 200 participants. We rejoice the recovery of the normal situation where we can meet in person, share friendship, and discuss common interests all together.
However, during the last month alone, we witnessed the tragic deaths of prosecutors of Paraguay, Honduras and Ecuador respectively. The IAP expressed its deep condolences to the victims and their bereaved families. Furthermore, the IAP lamented the losses by issuing statements and sending letters of our great concerns of the security of prosecutors to each of the countries.
In the meantime, prosecutors in some countries are having a rough time conflicting with outside forces such as political circles who intimidate the independence and neutrality of prosecutors. On request, the IAP will try to assist prosecutors and prosecution services which are facing these difficult situations.
Therefore, I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to my fellow prosecutors committed to the rule of law and criminal justice anywhere in the world despite serious difficulties. The IAP renews its determination to do its best for prosecutors across the globe to stay true to their original mission. For sure, we will stand on your side in all circumstances.
We look forward to meeting you all at the 27th Annual Conference to be held in Tbilisi, Georgia, in late September, for the first time in three years. I wish you and your family health, safety, and happiness.
Best regards,
Cheol-Kyu Hwang
President of the IAP