On 7 March, Lauma Paegļkalna, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, participated in the meeting of the Justice and Home Affairs Council of the European Union (EU) in Brussels, where she reaffirmed Latvia's firm position on supporting Ukraine and ensuring Russia's accountability for its crime of aggression.
The meeting was updated on the judicial response and the fight against impunity for crimes committed by Russia against Ukraine. In particular, the role of the International Criminal Court in investigating and prosecuting these crimes was highlighted.
Addressing EU colleagues, Ms Paeglkalna stressed the need for EU Member States to be united in a common and effective approach to dealing with the aggressor state. Ukraine-related issues must remain on the EU's agenda until its territorial integrity is restored to its pre-2014 borders. Everything possible must be done to ensure that the perpetrators of the most serious international crimes, in particular senior Russian officials, do not go unpunished. Europe must say more, do more and spend more to ensure Ukraine's ability to defend its territory and negotiate from a position of strength, she said.
Speaking about the importance of unity and solidarity between countries, L. Paegļkalna recalled the message of the Latvian animated film "Straume": "The film "Straume" vividly demonstrates that strength lies in both diversity and unity - it not only helps to exist, but also to reach new heights! We are all in the same boat, and we must overcome differences by cooperating. We must be united in the international environment - not only in words, but also in deeds."
In addition, the meeting also considered issues regarding the harmonisation of insolvency law at the EU level, which includes challenge requirements, asset tracing and the liquidation process of micro-enterprises, as well as funding opportunities for the protection and observance of fundamental rights.
At the meeting, the ministers also discussed the role of EU, national and private funding in the protection of fundamental rights, emphasizing the responsibility of the Member States and the European Commission to ensure that all EU funds are used in accordance with the Charter of Fundamental Rights.