Statement by The Reckoning Project on Sanctions Against Francesca Albanese

As an organization committed to documenting war crimes and advancing accountability, The Reckoning Project condemns the recent decision by United States Secretary of State and others to impose sanctions on Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967.

Ms. Albanese's mandate is to report independently on violations of international law and the rights of civilians in conflict. Attempts to silence, intimidate, or penalize independent experts undermine the fundamental principles of accountability and transparency, and they risk shielding perpetrators of war crimes from scrutiny.

We have seen, in conflict after conflict, the high price paid by civilians when international law is disregarded and when those tasked with documenting violations are attacked. Accountability begins with the courageous work of investigators and experts who document abuses and call for justice.

Sanctioning a UN-appointed human rights expert for carrying out her responsibilities sets a dangerous precedent. We call on governments and lawmakers to uphold the independence of UN Special Rapporteurs and support their critical work in documenting violations of international humanitarian law, wherever they occur and whoever the perpetrator may be.

At The Reckoning Project, we stand in solidarity with all human rights defenders and independent experts working to document war crimes and advocate for justice. There is no lasting peace without accountability.