The establishment of the Regional Network builds on the participation of a delegation from The Gambia, Guinea and Senegal in the most recent meeting of the European Network for the investigation and prosecution of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes (Genocide Prosecution Network) in November 2025. The visit, facilitated by the National Authorities against Impunity Project, also provided an opportunity for exchanges with key international and national partners and highlighted a shared interest in reinforcing regional judicial cooperation and facilitating information exchange in support of investigations and prosecutions of international crimes.

Representatives from jurisdictions with long-standing experience in investigating and prosecuting genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes, including France, the Netherlands and Sweden, shared practical examples of their cases and cooperation-related efforts. International stakeholders outlined lessons learned from criminal justice processes, while civil society organisations described how their documentation can support and contribute to the work of national authorities.

The role of victims and survivors was a central theme throughout the meeting, with discussions placing those most affected by the crimes at the centre.

In her welcome remarks, Eurojust Vice-President Margarita Šniutytė-Daugėlienė stressed the importance of using the full spectrum of national legislation when addressing international crimes. She emphasised that: International crimes enable to better capture, adjudicate and establish the truth in a court of the harms done to entire communities of victims and survivors. It enables societies to work towards recognition and reconciliation, and to promote sustainable and lasting peace.

The Regional Network for Western Africa aims to provide assistance to one another in investigating, prosecuting and adjudicating international crimes, as well as to coordinate efforts to this end.

It facilitates exchanges between national authorities, international partners and civil society, supports capacity building, and promotes the effective investigation and prosecution of core international crimes at the national level.

The joint declaration setting up the network is available in English and French.