What does the international criminal court do?
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is an international tribunal established to prosecute individuals for the most serious crimes of international concern, such as genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression. Its main functions include:
1. Prosecution: The ICC investigates and prosecutes individuals accused of committing the aforementioned crimes. It has the authority to bring charges against individuals, issue arrest warrants, conduct trials, and impose sentences.
2. Deterrence: The ICC aims to deter future perpetrators by holding individuals accountable for their actions and ensuring that serious international crimes do not go unpunished.
3. Victim and Witness Protection: The ICC places significant emphasis on the protection and well-being of victims and witnesses. It provides support, security, and participation rights to ensure their safety during investigations and trials.
4. Judicial Independence: The ICC operates as an independent and impartial judicial institution, adhering to fundamental principles of fairness, due process, and the rule of law.
5. Jurisdiction: The ICC has jurisdiction over crimes committed within the territory of its member states, crimes committed by nationals of its member states, and crimes referred to it by the United Nations Security Council.
6. Cooperation: The ICC depends on the cooperation of states and other international actors to carry out its functions effectively. It can request assistance or information from states and organizations to facilitate investigations and prosecutions.
Overall, the ICC plays a crucial role in promoting justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights on a global scale.