THE HAGUE, Netherlands – 25 September 2026 — Mr. Shantha Dalugamage, Director of Truth Media International, attended the 2026 General Assembly of the International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA), held in The Hague, Netherlands, on Friday, 25 September 2026.
The annual General Assembly brought together members of the international legal community and provided an important forum for the ICCBA’s governance, professional activities and engagement on matters relating to international criminal justice.
According to the ICCBA, the 2026 General Assembly was held on 25 September 2026, from 13:00 to 17:00 CEST, at Oude Waalsdorperweg 10 in The Hague. ICCBA-ABCPI
The ICCBA is an independent professional association representing the interests of Counsel and Support Staff at the International Criminal Court. It serves as a collective voice for independent Counsel and Support Staff representing victims, defendants and other actors before the Court, while providing professional support and a forum for discussion on matters relating to the ICC
New Leadership: Congratulations to Marie O’Leary
The 2026 General Assembly also marked a new chapter in the leadership of the Association, with Marie O’Leary taking on the role of President of the ICCBA.
Ms. O’Leary brings extensive experience in international criminal law, international humanitarian law and human rights. Her professional background includes work with the Office of Public Counsel for the Defence at the International Criminal Court and the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, as well as involvement in defence-related professional associations and capacity-building initiatives. ICCBA-ABCPI
Truth Media International extends its warm congratulations to Marie O’Leary on this new leadership role and wishes her every success as she undertakes the responsibilities ahead. We wish her a productive and successful tenure and continued achievements in advancing the professional work and objectives of the Association.
Recognising the Contribution of Dominic Kennedy
ruth Media International also recognises the contribution of Dominic Kennedy, Executive Director of the International Criminal Court Bar Association.
The ICCBA’s governance structure provides for an Executive Director who is responsible for the administration of the Association and for monitoring the implementation of strategies and activities undertaken by the Executive Council. ICCBA-ABCPI
Mr. Kennedy was appointed as the ICCBA’s first Executive Director in 2017. ICCBA records also acknowledge his contribution to the development of the Association’s website and its digital infrastructure. ICCBA-ABCPI
Truth Media International expresses its appreciation for Mr. Kennedy’s continued service and contribution to the ICCBA and wishes him continued success in his responsibilities and future work with the Association.
Appreciation to Outgoing President Philippe Larochelle
Special appreciation is also extended to Philippe Larochelle, who served as President of the ICCBA during the preceding term.
Mr. Larochelle is an experienced international criminal law practitioner who has represented clients before international judicial institutions including the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, the International Criminal Court and the Special Tribunal for Lebanon. ICCBA records list him as President for the 2024–2025 period and show his continued involvement in the Association. ICCBA-ABCPI
Truth Media International extends its sincere appreciation to Mr. Larochelle for his leadership, commitment and service to the Association during his presidency. We wish him continued success in his professional work and future contributions to international criminal justice.
Shantha Dalugamage Participates in the General Assembly
Mr. Shantha Dalugamage, Director of Truth Media International, participated in the General Assembly, providing an opportunity to engage with members of the international legal community and follow developments relating to international criminal justice and the professional work of the ICCBA.
His participation reflects Truth Media International’s continuing engagement with issues relating to human rights, justice, peace, the rule of law and international dialogue.
A Forum for International Criminal Justice
The ICCBA General Assembly is central to the Association’s governance. Under its governance structure, members elect a President and other members of the Executive Council, while standing committees undertake work across different areas relevant to legal practice before the ICC. ICCBA-ABCPI
The 2026 gathering provided another opportunity for members to review the Association’s activities and engage on matters concerning the international criminal justice community.
Truth Media International congratulates the incoming leadership, expresses appreciation to those who have served the Association, and wishes the ICCBA and its members continued success in their future work.
