Rule 17 Functions of the Unit

1.

2.

(a)

With respect to all witnesses, victims who appear before the Court, and others who are at risk on account of testimony given by such witnesses, in accordance with their particular needs and circumstances:

(i)

Providing them with adequate protective and security measures and formulating long- and short-term plans for their protection;

(ii)

Recommending to the organs of the Court the adoption of protection measures and also advising relevant States of such measures;

(iii)

Assisting them in obtaining medical, psychological and other appropriate assistance;

(iv)

Making available to the Court and the parties training in issues of trauma, sexual violence, security and confidentiality;

(v)

Recommending, in consultation with the Office of the Prosecutor, the elaboration of a code of conduct, emphasizing the vital nature of security and confidentiality for investigators of the Court and of the defence and all intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations acting at the request of the Court, as appropriate;

(vi)

Cooperating with States, where necessary, in providing any of the measures stipulated in this rule;

(b)

With respect to witnesses:

(i)

Advising them where to obtain legal advice for the purpose of protecting their rights, in particular in relation to their testimony;

(ii)

Assisting them when they are called to testify before the Court;

(iii)

Taking gender-sensitive measures to facilitate the testimony of victims of sexual violence at all stages of the proceedings.

3.