International Criminal Court (ICC): Justice on a Global Scale

International Criminal Court is a permanent tribunal based in The Hague, Netherlands, established to prosecute individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression. It aims to hold perpetrators accountable for the most serious international crimes and promote global justice & peace.

Headquarters: Oude Waalsdorperweg 10, 2597 AK Den Haag, Netherlands, Europe
Founded in: 17 July 1998 (Adopted); 1 July 2002 (came into force)
Languages: 6 official languages; 2 working languages (English & French)
Member States: 124 States
Website: www.icc-cpi.int

Overview

The International Criminal Court (ICC) stands as a beacon of hope for global justice, aiming to hold individuals accountable for the most heinous crimes known to humanity. Established through the Rome Statute in 1998 and officially inaugurated in 2002, the ICC represents a significant milestone in international law, signaling a collective commitment to ending impunity for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and, more recently, the crime of aggression. This article by Academic Block dive into the intricacies of the ICC, examining its history, structure, jurisdiction, notable cases, challenges, and future prospects.

Historical Context

The origins of the ICC can be traced back to the aftermath of World War II and the Nuremberg and Tokyo trials, which laid the foundation for modern international criminal law. However, it was not until the 1990s, amidst atrocities in the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda, that the international community recognized the need for a permanent court to prosecute individuals responsible for such grave offenses. The Rome Statute, adopted in 1998, established the legal framework for the ICC, reflecting a culmination of decades of efforts to create a permanent international tribunal.

Structure and Governance

The ICC operates as an independent judicial institution headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands. It consists of several key organs:

The Presidency: Comprising the President and two Vice-Presidents, the Presidency oversees the administration of the Court, including judicial matters and external relations.
The Judicial Divisions: Consisting of the Pre-Trial, Trial, and Appeals Divisions, these bodies are responsible for conducting proceedings at various stages of the legal process, from initial investigations to appeals.
The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP): Led by the Prosecutor, this office investigates and prosecutes cases before the Court, acting independently from other organs.
The Registry: Responsible for non-judicial aspects of the Court's operations, the Registry manages administrative, logistical, and support functions.
The Assembly of States Parties (ASP): Comprising the Court's member states, the ASP provides governance and oversight, including budgetary matters and amendments to the Rome Statute.

Jurisdiction of International Criminal Court

The ICC's jurisdiction extends to four primary categories of crimes:

Genocide: Defined as acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.
Crimes against Humanity: Including widespread or systematic attacks directed against civilians, such as murder, enslavement, torture, and persecution.
War Crimes: Violations of the laws and customs of war, including targeting civilians, using child soldiers, and pillaging.
Crime of Aggression: Added in 2010, this crime pertains to the use of armed force by a state against another state's sovereignty, territorial integrity, or political independence.

The ICC's jurisdiction is complementary to national courts, meaning it can only intervene when national authorities are unable or unwilling to prosecute individuals accused of these crimes. Additionally, the Court's jurisdiction is limited to crimes committed after its establishment in 2002, although states can grant retroactive jurisdiction by ratifying the Rome Statute.

Notable Cases of International Criminal Court

Since its inception, the ICC has handled several high-profile cases that have garnered international attention:

Lubanga Case (Democratic Republic of the Congo): Thomas Lubanga, a former warlord from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), was the first person to be convicted by the ICC. In 2012, he was found guilty of recruiting and using child soldiers in the Ituri region of the DRC between 2002 and 2003. Lubanga's conviction marked a historic milestone for the ICC as its first verdict.
Ongwen Case (Uganda): Dominic Ongwen, a former commander of the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) in Uganda, was convicted by the ICC in 2021 for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Ongwen was found guilty of numerous atrocities, including murder, rape, sexual slavery, and conscripting child soldiers. His conviction highlighted the ICC's commitment to prosecuting individuals responsible for crimes committed against children and civilians.
Al-Mahdi Case (Mali): Ahmad al-Faqi al-Mahdi, a Malian jihadist, was convicted by the ICC in 2016 for the war crime of intentionally directing attacks against historic and religious monuments in Timbuktu, Mali. Al-Mahdi's prosecution marked the first time the ICC had charged an individual solely with the destruction of cultural heritage sites, underscoring the importance of protecting cultural property during armed conflict.
Gaddafi Case (Libya): Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the son of former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, was indicted by the ICC for crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the 2011 Libyan civil war. Although he has not been apprehended and brought to trial, the case against him highlighted the ICC's role in holding high-ranking officials accountable for atrocities committed during conflicts.
Bemba Case (Democratic Republic of the Congo): Jean-Pierre Bemba, a Congolese politician and militia leader, was convicted by the ICC in 2016 for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by his militia, the Movement for the Liberation of Congo (MLC), in the Central African Republic (CAR) between 2002 and 2003. Bemba's conviction was significant as it held a high-ranking official accountable for crimes committed by forces under his control.

These cases illustrate the ICC's role in holding perpetrators accountable for egregious violations of international law and providing a semblance of justice to victims.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite its noble aspirations, the ICC faces several challenges and criticisms that threaten its effectiveness and credibility:

Limited Jurisdiction: The ICC's jurisdiction is constrained by the voluntary participation of states, with notable absences such as the United States, China, and Russia, weakening its global reach and enforcement capabilities.
Political Interference: The Court often faces accusations of political bias and selective justice, with some cases perceived as targeting African leaders disproportionately, fueling accusations of neocolonialism.
Resource Constraints: The ICC operates with limited resources, hindering its ability to conduct thorough investigations and prosecutions, especially in complex conflict zones with minimal cooperation from authorities.
Enforcement Challenges: The ICC lacks its own enforcement mechanism, relying on member states to execute arrest warrants and enforce judgments, which can be problematic when dealing with non-cooperative governments.
Public Perception: Despite its significant achievements, the ICC struggles with public perception and legitimacy, particularly in regions where skepticism towards international interventions prevails.

Future Prospects

Despite the challenges it faces, the ICC remains a crucial institution in the fight against impunity and the promotion of international justice. Several steps can be taken to enhance its effectiveness and relevance:

Expanded Jurisdiction: Efforts should be made to encourage more states to ratify the Rome Statute and grant the ICC broader jurisdiction, including over crimes of terrorism and environmental destruction.
Enhanced Cooperation: Closer collaboration between the ICC and national authorities, as well as regional organizations, can facilitate information sharing, capacity building, and the apprehension of suspects.
Strengthened Resources: Increased financial and logistical support from member states can bolster the ICC's investigative and prosecutorial capabilities, enabling it to tackle complex cases more effectively.
Improved Outreach and Communication: The ICC should engage in proactive outreach efforts to raise awareness about its mandate, processes, and achievements, fostering greater understanding and support among the public.
Reform and Adaptation: Ongoing institutional reforms should address issues of efficiency, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that the ICC remains responsive to evolving challenges and expectations.

Final Words

The International Criminal Court represents a monumental achievement in the quest for global justice, embodying the collective commitment of the international community to uphold the principles of accountability, fairness, and human rights. While it faces formidable challenges and criticisms, the ICC remains a beacon of hope for victims of atrocities worldwide, offering a pathway towards reconciliation, healing, and the prevention of future crimes against humanity. As the ICC continues its mission to end impunity and promote the rule of law, it must adapt and evolve in response to the changing dynamics of conflict, politics, and human rights, ensuring that justice remains within reach for all. Hope you liked reading this article by Academic Block, please provide your insightful thoughts to make this article better. Thanks for Reading!

This Article will answer your questions like:

+ What is the International Criminal Court (ICC) and what are its main objectives? >

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is a permanent tribunal established to prosecute individuals for serious international crimes, including genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Its main objectives are to promote accountability, deter future crimes, and provide justice for victims. By operating independently of national jurisdictions, the ICC aims to uphold the rule of law and contribute to global peace and security.

+ When was the ICC established? >

The International Criminal Court (ICC) was established on July 1, 2002, following the adoption of the Rome Statute in 1998. This milestone marked the culmination of efforts to create a permanent international judicial body capable of addressing heinous crimes and ensuring accountability. The ICC reflects the international community's commitment to preventing impunity and promoting justice on a global scale.

+ Which countries are members of the International Criminal Court in 2024? >

As of 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has 123 member states. This includes a diverse array of countries from all continents, with notable exceptions such as the United States, Russia, and China. Membership signifies a commitment to the principles of accountability and the rule of law, allowing states to collaborate in the prosecution of international crimes.

+ Where is the International Criminal Court headquarters? >

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands. This location is significant due to The Hague's status as the "International City of Peace and Justice," hosting various international courts and organizations. The ICC's presence in The Hague underscores its commitment to promoting international law and justice.

+ How does the ICC differ from national courts and other international tribunals? >

The ICC differs from national courts in that it prosecutes individuals for grave international crimes that exceed the jurisdiction of national law. Unlike other international tribunals, which may be established for specific conflicts, the ICC operates as a permanent court with a mandate to address crimes worldwide, emphasizing accountability and the universality of justice.

+ What are the key cases that the International Criminal Court has handled? >

Key cases handled by the ICC include the prosecution of individuals involved in the Darfur conflict, the trial of former Congolese warlord Thomas Lubanga for the use of child soldiers, and the ongoing proceedings against high-profile leaders in situations such as Libya and Central African Republic. These cases illustrate the ICC's role in addressing egregious violations of human rights.

+ What is the difference between ICC and ICJ? >

The International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) serve different purposes. The ICC prosecutes individuals for serious international crimes, while the ICJ settles disputes between states and provides advisory opinions on legal questions. The ICC focuses on criminal accountability, whereas the ICJ addresses issues of state responsibility and international law interpretation.

+ What challenges does the ICC face in enforcing its rulings? >

The ICC faces significant challenges in enforcing its rulings, primarily due to limited cooperation from states. Many nations, including non-member states, are reluctant to arrest indicted individuals or surrender suspects. Additionally, political pressures, security concerns, and lack of resources hinder the ICC's effectiveness in carrying out its mandate and achieving justice.

+ How can individuals and countries refer cases to the International Criminal Court? >

Individuals and countries can refer cases to the ICC through several mechanisms. States that are parties to the Rome Statute can submit cases directly to the Court. Additionally, the United Nations Security Council can refer situations involving non-member states. Individuals may also submit communications to the ICC, prompting preliminary investigations into potential crimes.

+ What role do the United Nations and other organizations play in relation to the ICC? >

The United Nations plays a crucial role in supporting the ICC through resolutions that reinforce its mandate and through cooperative agreements. Various international organizations also collaborate with the ICC by providing technical assistance, promoting awareness of international law, and facilitating the Court’s operations. This support enhances the ICC’s credibility and operational capacity.

+ How does the ICC address issues of victims' rights and reparations? >

The ICC addresses victims' rights through its dedicated Victims and Witnesses Unit, ensuring their participation in proceedings and safeguarding their well-being. The Court can also order reparations for victims, which may include restitution, compensation, or rehabilitation, thereby recognizing their suffering and providing a measure of justice for the harms endured.

+ What are the criticisms of the International Criminal Court? >

The ICC faces criticism for perceived bias, particularly regarding its focus on African nations while neglecting atrocities in other regions. Critics argue that it lacks effective enforcement mechanisms, relies on state cooperation, and has struggled with lengthy trial processes. These issues raise concerns about its legitimacy and effectiveness in delivering justice.

+ How does the International Criminal Court cooperate with national governments? >

The ICC cooperates with national governments through legal frameworks established by the Rome Statute, which obligates member states to assist in the arrest and transfer of suspects. Furthermore, the ICC engages in capacity-building initiatives, sharing expertise and resources to enhance national judicial systems, thereby fostering a collaborative approach to international justice.

Role of Prosecutor in International Criminal Court

Investigation: The Prosecutor is tasked with conducting thorough and independent investigations into allegations of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression. These investigations aim to collect evidence, identify perpetrators, and build cases for prosecution before the Court.

Prosecution: Upon completing an investigation, the Prosecutor decides whether to proceed with bringing charges against individuals accused of committing international crimes. They present cases before the Pre-Trial Chamber, seeking authorization to initiate formal proceedings against the suspects.

Case Preparation: The Prosecutor is responsible for preparing cases for trial, which involves compiling evidence, interviewing witnesses, and drafting indictments detailing the charges against the accused. They work closely with investigators, legal advisors, and support staff to ensure the robustness and integrity of the case.

Presentation of Evidence: During trial proceedings, the Prosecutor presents evidence to support the charges against the accused. This may include witness testimony, documentary evidence, forensic analysis, and expert opinions, all aimed at proving the guilt of the defendants beyond a reasonable doubt.

Legal Advocacy: The Prosecutor acts as the principal legal representative of the ICC in court proceedings, advocating for the prosecution’s position and presenting arguments in support of the charges. They engage with defense counsel, judges, and other parties to ensure a fair and impartial trial process.

Protection of Victims and Witnesses: The Prosecutor is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of victims and witnesses who participate in ICC proceedings. They implement measures to protect them from intimidation, retaliation, or harm, and may request assistance from the Registry in providing support services.

Appeals: In the event of a conviction or acquittal, the Prosecutor has the option to appeal the judgment to the Appeals Chamber. They can challenge legal errors or issues of fact that may have affected the outcome of the trial, seeking to uphold the integrity of the Court’s decisions.

Cooperation with States and Organizations: The Prosecutor engages in diplomatic and operational cooperation with states parties, non-state actors, international organizations, and other stakeholders to facilitate investigations, gather evidence, and execute arrest warrants. They may seek assistance in apprehending suspects, obtaining testimony, or accessing crime scenes and evidence.

Process of appointing Judges in ICC

Nomination Phase: The nomination of judges begins with the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), which is comprised of representatives from states that are parties to the Rome Statute. The ASP is responsible for nominating candidates for judicial positions on the ICC.

Qualifications Criteria: According to the Rome Statute, judges of the ICC must possess the highest moral character, integrity, and impartiality. They must also have recognized competence in international law and significant experience in criminal law proceedings. Additionally, the Statute requires a fair representation of both genders and legal systems among the judges.

Nomination by States Parties: States Parties to the Rome Statute nominate candidates for judicial positions based on the qualifications criteria outlined in the Statute. Each state party may nominate candidates for vacant positions, ensuring a diverse pool of candidates from different legal traditions and backgrounds.

Selection Committee: The ASP establishes a Selection Committee composed of representatives from states parties. The Selection Committee is responsible for evaluating the nominations received from states parties and compiling a list of qualified candidates for judicial positions.

Evaluation of Candidates: The Selection Committee evaluates the qualifications, experience, and suitability of each candidate based on the criteria specified in the Rome Statute. The Committee may conduct interviews, review candidates’ professional backgrounds, and assess their knowledge of international criminal law.

List of Qualified Candidates: After completing the evaluation process, the Selection Committee compiles a list of qualified candidates for judicial positions. The list includes individuals who meet the criteria set forth in the Rome Statute and are deemed capable of fulfilling the responsibilities of an ICC judge.

Appointment by the ASP: The list of qualified candidates is submitted to the ASP for consideration and approval. The ASP votes to appoint judges from among the candidates on the list, taking into account factors such as gender balance, geographical representation, and legal expertise.

Term of Office: Judges of the ICC are appointed for a term of nine years, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term. The staggered terms ensure continuity and stability within the Court’s judiciary while allowing for the periodic renewal of judicial membership.

Process of initiating an investigation by the ICC

Preliminary Examination: The process typically begins with a preliminary examination conducted by the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP). During this phase, the Prosecutor assesses whether there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation into alleged crimes within the jurisdiction of the ICC. The OTP gathers information from various sources, including reports from states, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other reliable sources.

Criteria for Proceeding: To proceed with an investigation, the OTP must determine that the alleged crimes fall within the jurisdiction of the ICC, namely genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, or the crime of aggression. The OTP also assesses whether the alleged crimes meet the admissibility criteria, meaning they were committed after the ICC’s establishment in 2002 and fall within the jurisdiction of a state party or have been referred to the ICC by the United Nations Security Council.

Authorization by the Pre-Trial Chamber: If the OTP determines that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation, it submits a request to the Pre-Trial Chamber for authorization. The request includes detailed information on the alleged crimes, the relevant legal framework, and the jurisdictional basis for the investigation. The Pre-Trial Chamber reviews the request and decides whether to authorize the investigation based on the evidence presented.

Notification to States Parties and Other Stakeholders: Once authorized, the OTP notifies the states parties to the Rome Statute and other relevant stakeholders of the decision to initiate an investigation. This notification serves to inform states of their obligations to cooperate with the investigation and provide assistance to the Court as required.

Conduct of the Investigation: With the authorization from the Pre-Trial Chamber, the OTP proceeds with conducting the investigation. This involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, collecting forensic data, and other investigative activities aimed at building a case against the individuals suspected of committing the alleged crimes.

Indictment and Prosecution: Upon completion of the investigation, if the OTP believes there is sufficient evidence to support charges against specific individuals, it may request the issuance of arrest warrants or summonses to appear from the Pre-Trial Chamber. The indicted individuals are then brought before the ICC to face trial proceedings.

Trial and Judgment: The indicted individuals are entitled to a fair and impartial trial before the ICC’s Trial Chamber. The prosecution presents its case, and the defense has an opportunity to respond. The Trial Chamber evaluates the evidence presented and delivers a judgment based on the merits of the case.

Powers and Functions of the ICC

The International Criminal Court (ICC) plays a crucial role in the global legal system, focusing on the prosecution of serious crimes. Here are its primary powers and functions:

Power of the ICC

Jurisdiction: The ICC has the authority to prosecute individuals for four core international crimes: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression.
Indictment and Prosecution: The ICC can issue arrest warrants and summons to appear for individuals suspected of committing these crimes. It conducts trials to determine guilt or innocence.
Complementarity: The ICC operates on the principle of complementarity, meaning it can only prosecute cases when national courts are unwilling or unable to do so genuinely.
Cooperation with States: The ICC has the power to request assistance from member states for investigations and arrests. States are obligated to cooperate with the court under the Rome Statute.
Enforcement: Although the ICC cannot enforce its own arrest warrants, it relies on member states to apprehend and surrender accused individuals.

Functions of the ICC

Conducting Investigations: The ICC can initiate investigations either on its own or following referrals from member states or the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Trial Proceedings: The ICC conducts fair and impartial trials, ensuring the rights of the accused are respected while also providing for the participation of victims.
Victims’ Rights: The ICC recognizes the rights of victims to participate in proceedings and seeks to provide reparations for harm suffered due to the crimes.
Legal Precedent: The ICC contributes to the development of international criminal law by setting legal precedents through its rulings and interpretations of the law.
Promotion of International Justice: By prosecuting serious crimes, the ICC aims to deter future crimes, promote accountability, and provide a sense of justice to victims and affected communities.
Outreach and Education: The ICC engages in outreach activities to educate the public about its work, enhance understanding of international criminal justice, and foster cooperation with local legal systems.
Collaboration with Other Institutions: The ICC collaborates with various international organizations, such as the United Nations, to address global justice and humanitarian issues effectively.

Relationship between the ICC and National Courts

Complementarity Principle: The complementarity principle stipulates that the ICC is a court of last resort, intervening only when national authorities are unable or unwilling to prosecute individuals accused of committing genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, or the crime of aggression. In other words, the ICC steps in to fill the gap when national courts are unable or unwilling to prosecute these crimes effectively.

Primary Jurisdiction of National Courts: According to the complementarity principle, national courts have the primary jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute international crimes committed within their territories. States are encouraged to conduct genuine investigations and prosecutions of such crimes in their domestic courts, thereby promoting accountability at the national level.

ICC’s Supplementary Role: The ICC’s role is supplementary to national courts, meaning it can only intervene when national authorities are genuinely unable or unwilling to carry out investigations or prosecutions. The ICC does not seek to replace national judicial systems but rather to complement them by providing an international mechanism for accountability when domestic avenues are inadequate.

Admissibility Assessments: Before initiating investigations or prosecutions, the ICC conducts admissibility assessments to determine whether a case is admissible before the Court. Admissibility assessments evaluate whether national authorities have genuinely investigated or prosecuted the case, or whether there are exceptional circumstances that render national proceedings unable or unwilling to proceed.

Positive Complementarity: In addition to intervening in cases where national authorities fail to act, the ICC also encourages positive complementarity, whereby it supports and strengthens national judicial systems to enhance their capacity to investigate and prosecute international crimes effectively. This may involve providing technical assistance, capacity building, and cooperation with national authorities.

Cooperation and Coordination: The relationship between the ICC and national courts relies on cooperation and coordination between the two entities. The ICC cooperates with national authorities by sharing information, evidence, and expertise, as well as by facilitating the transfer of cases to national jurisdictions when appropriate. Additionally, national courts may request assistance from the ICC in conducting investigations or gathering evidence.

Respect for National Sovereignty: The ICC respects the sovereignty of states and their right to administer justice within their territories. The Court intervenes only when necessary, while acknowledging the primary role of national courts in prosecuting international crimes and ensuring accountability for perpetrators.

Four principle organs of International Criminal Court (ICC)

The Presidency: The Presidency of the ICC is a key administrative body responsible for overseeing the Court’s operations and functions. It comprises three officials:

The President: The President of the ICC is elected by the judges from among their number for a term of three years, renewable once. The President represents the Court in its external relations, presides over judicial sessions, and exercises various administrative functions.
Two Vice-Presidents: The ICC has two Vice-Presidents, each elected from a different geographic group of states parties. They assist the President in performing their duties and act as their deputies in their absence.

The Presidency plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient functioning of the Court, managing its resources, and maintaining relationships with states parties, international organizations, and other stakeholders.

The Judicial Divisions: The Judicial Divisions of the ICC consist of three main bodies:

Pre-Trial Division: This division handles matters related to the initiation of investigations, confirmation of charges, and issuance of arrest warrants. It evaluates evidence presented by the Office of the Prosecutor and determines whether there are sufficient grounds to proceed with a trial.
Trial Division: The Trial Division conducts proceedings for the trial of individuals accused of committing crimes within the jurisdiction of the ICC. It ensures fair and impartial trials, hears evidence presented by the prosecution and defense, and delivers judgments based on the merits of the case.
Appeals Division: The Appeals Division hears appeals from decisions rendered by the Trial Division and the Pre-Trial Division. It reviews legal errors and issues of fact raised by parties to the proceedings, ensuring the consistency and coherence of the Court’s jurisprudence.

These divisions constitute the judicial backbone of the ICC, upholding the principles of due process, fairness, and impartiality in the adjudication of cases.

The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP): The Office of the Prosecutor is an independent organ of the ICC responsible for investigating and prosecuting individuals accused of committing crimes within the Court’s jurisdiction. The OTP is headed by the Prosecutor, who is elected by the Assembly of States Parties for a non-renewable term of nine years.

The Prosecutor and their office conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and prepare cases for presentation before the Court. They have the authority to initiate investigations proprio motu (on their own initiative), upon referral by a state party or the United Nations Security Council, or upon the request of the Pre-Trial Chamber.

The OTP plays a crucial role in holding perpetrators of international crimes accountable and seeking justice for victims, operating independently from political influence or external pressure.

The Registry: The Registry serves as the administrative arm of the ICC, providing support services to facilitate the Court’s functioning. Its responsibilities include:

Logistical Support: The Registry manages facilities, equipment, and logistical arrangements for judicial proceedings, including courtrooms, offices, and accommodations for staff and participants.
Administrative Services: The Registry handles administrative matters such as human resources, finance, procurement, and information technology, ensuring the efficient operation of the Court’s activities.
Victims and Witnesses Support: The Registry provides assistance and protection to victims and witnesses participating in ICC proceedings, including counseling, legal support, and measures to ensure their safety and well-being.
Outreach and Communication: The Registry engages in outreach activities to raise awareness about the ICC’s mandate, processes, and outcomes, fostering understanding and cooperation among affected communities and stakeholders.

By fulfilling these functions, the Registry plays a vital role in supporting the delivery of justice and upholding the rights of all those involved in ICC proceedings.

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