What is the role of the International Criminal Court in global justice?

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is a permanent international court established to investigate, prosecute, and try individuals accused of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community, including genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. The ICC is based in The Hague, Netherlands and was established by the Rome Statute, which came into force on July 1, 2002.

The role of the ICC is to provide a forum for justice in cases where national judicial systems are unable or unwilling to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of international crimes. The Court has jurisdiction over crimes committed by individuals from states that have ratified the Rome Statute or have accepted its jurisdiction on an ad hoc basis. The ICC complements national judicial systems; it does not replace them. The Court is not intended to be a substitute for national criminal justice systems, but rather a court of last resort that steps in when national courts are unable or unwilling to act.

The ICC also plays a role in promoting global justice by helping to deter future crimes and ensuring accountability for those who have committed international crimes. By holding individuals accountable for their actions, the ICC aims to contribute to the prevention of these crimes and to the promotion of peace, security, and stability.