Dr. Katarina Barley: Patron of the Model International Criminal Court (MICC)

With her support, she is sending a strong signal in favour of international understanding, the protection of human rights, the rule of law and civic engagement by young people. We would like to thank Dr. Katarina Barley sincerely for this trust and feel encouraged by her commitment to continue on our path with even more motivation. Below you can read her message of greeting for taking over the patronage of the Model International Criminal Court (MICC).

Patron's message

With the Model International Criminal Court (MICC), the Kreisau-Initiative e. V. has created an exceptional educational programme that offers young people the opportunity to become familiar with international law and encourages them to stand up for justice and human rights.

The topics addressed by the MICC are more important today than ever before, as international law is an indispensable component of a global order based on the rule of law. We are living in a time marked by new geopolitical challenges, conflicts, and human rights violations. Especially now, it is crucial to raise awareness of justice and individual responsibility and to demonstrate how one can effectively advocate for these values.

This is where the MICC comes in: it enables young people from different countries to engage with real cases of human rights violations, analyse complex legal issues, and take on the roles of judges, prosecutors, defence attorneys, and journalists.

The experiences participants gain through the MICC are often life changing. They frequently spark a desire to become more engaged in society, influence choices of study or career, and mark the beginning of friendships that last a lifetime. MICC shows that justice is not an abstract idea, but a shared responsibility we must all uphold. Dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect for human rights are the cornerstones of peaceful coexistence and international cooperation.

It is encouraging to see the commitment and enthusiasm with which the participants take on the challenges of this unique educational programme. Our societies need people who stand up for justice—both within and beyond Europe—with conviction and moral courage.

As the patron of the Model International Criminal Court, I am pleased to support the work of the Kreisau-Initiative e. V. I am convinced that the MICC will continue to play an important role in human rights education and, therefore, in the defence of human rights in the years to come.

I wish you all an enriching and inspiring experience!