On 15 October 2026, Professor Benedetta Audia, representing the Sovereign Order of Malta, addressed the Sixth Committee of the United Nations General Assembly on the scope and application of the principle of universal jurisdiction, highlighting the importance of accountability for the gravest international crimes and the protection of victims.

The Order welcomed the continued consideration of universal jurisdiction and emphasised the need to address impunity for crimes such as torture and enforced disappearance. Drawing on the Order’s humanitarian experience, Professor Audia highlighted the challenges faced by refugees and displaced persons living far from the places where they suffered. She also underscored the work of Malteser International, the Order’s local partners, national associations and relief corps in providing medical care and psychosocial support to survivors of violence, including children affected by the war in Ukraine.

Professor Audia stressed that universal jurisdiction can help ensure that victims have access to justice wherever they find refuge. She underlined that its application must be consistent with international law, respect the sovereign equality of States and uphold fair trial guarantees, while avoiding selectivity and political motivation.

She also highlighted the importance of safeguarding the neutrality and impartiality of humanitarian personnel, stressing that accountability efforts must not compromise humanitarian access or the delivery of assistance to those in need.

Reaffirming the Sovereign Order of Malta’s commitment to human dignity and international justice, Professor Audia called for lawful efforts to ensure that the gravest crimes do not go unpunished and that victims are not forgotten.