ICoj

ICoj, also known as International Criminal Court of Justice, is a permanent international tribunal established to prosecute individuals for the most serious crimes of international concern, namely genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. It was established by the Rome Statute, which entered into force on July 1, 2002. The ICC has its seat in The Hague, Netherlands, and is composed of judges elected by the Assembly of States Parties.

The ICC has jurisdiction over situations where national courts are unwilling or unable to prosecute, or where there is a clear risk that the perpetrators will not be prosecuted by national authorities. It can also investigate and prosecute crimes committed by individuals who are nationals of a State Party to the Rome Statute or who have committed crimes on the territory of a State Party.

The ICC's jurisdiction is not automatic; it must be requested by a State Party or the United Nations Security Council. Once a situation is referred to the ICC, the court can investigate and, if necessary, prosecute the alleged perpetrators. The ICC's decisions are binding on the States Parties to the Rome Statute.

The ICC's independence and impartiality are ensured by its unique status as a hybrid international institution, with a mixed legal personality. It is not a state, but it has the legal capacity to enter into agreements and to sue and be sued. Its judges are independent and impartial, and its decisions are binding on the States Parties.

The ICC has been the subject of much debate and controversy since its establishment. Some have praised it for its role in promoting international justice and accountability, while others have criticized it for its perceived bias, lack of independence, and interference in domestic affairs. Despite these controversies, the ICC has prosecuted several high-profile cases, including those involving Charles Taylor, Thomas Lubanga, and Fatou Bensouda.