The International Criminal Court (ICC)

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is tasked with investigating and, when necessary, prosecuting individuals accused of the most serious international crimes, including genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression. It operates as a court of last resort, aiming to complement rather than replace national legal systems. Its legal framework is defined by the Rome Statute, an international treaty.

The ICC functions through four key organs:

1. Presidency: The President, chosen by the eighteen judges in the Judicial Division, holds a senior role in overseeing the Court’s operations.

2. Judicial Divisions: Comprising eighteen judges, this division hears cases brought before the Court, ensuring justice is served.

3. Office of the Prosecutor: Led by the Prosecutor, this office investigates crimes and initiates criminal proceedings within the Judicial Division.

4. Registry: The Registrar heads this organ, responsible for managing all administrative aspects of the ICC, including its headquarters, detentionunit, and public defence office.

With a diverse workforce of over 900 individuals from approximately 100 countries, the ICC conducts proceedings in English and French. Its governance is under the purview of the Assembly of States Parties, composed of states party to the Rome Statute, which elects officials, approves budgets, and amends the Rome Statute to guide the Court’s mission.