Part 1
General Provisions
8. Communications with the International Criminal Court
1. As a rule, communications with the International Criminal Court shall take place via the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Documents relating to the execution of requests shall also be conveyed to the ICC via the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cases where such requests reach the Austrian judicial or administrative authorities through other channels. 4
2. Courts and public prosecutors shall address information and any documents relating to the execution of requests to the Federal Ministry of Justice for onward transmission.
3. In urgent cases, and in the context of judicial assistance in criminal matters, the Austrian authorities may communicate directly with the International Criminal Court or via the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL). Further, in urgent cases, any means of communication may be used which will allow the production of a written record such that the authenticity of the request may be verified. Requests thus transmitted require confirmation via the channel provided for in paragraph 1 above.
(a) The Court shall have the authority to make requests to States Parties for cooperation. The requests shall be transmitted through the diplomatic channel or any other appropriate channel as may be designated by each State Party upon ratification, acceptance, approval or accession. Subsequent changes to the designation shall be made by each State Party in accordance with the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.