International Criminal Court (ICC)

The International Criminal Court (ICC), based in The Hague, is an intergovernmental organization and international tribunal that investigates and prosecutes individuals accused of the gravest crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression. The ICC's jurisdiction is triggered when national courts are unwilling or unable to genuinely carry out proceedings. The ICC is currently newsworthy due to ongoing investigations and hearings related to alleged crimes against humanity. Specifically, the ICC is holding hearings to determine if former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte should stand trial for his role in the extrajudicial killings linked to his “war on drugs.” Prosecutors assert Duterte was pivotal in the murders of thousands. Simultaneously, the ICC's role in addressing international crimes is highlighted by the situation in Sudan, where the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are accused of atrocities. The ICC's actions underscore its relevance in pursuing accountability for serious international crimes and its potential impact on individuals and nations.