The International Criminal Court: An Intergovernmental Organization
About the ICC
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is an intergovernmental organization and international tribunal that investigates and prosecutes individuals charged with the most serious crimes of concern to the international community, namely war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
Establishment
The ICC was established in 2002 by the Rome Statute, an international treaty that has been ratified by 123 countries.
Jurisdiction
The ICC has jurisdiction over crimes committed within the territory of a State Party or by nationals of a State Party, provided that the Security Council of the United Nations has referred the situation to the Court or the State has accepted the jurisdiction of the Court.
Investigations and Prosecutions
The ICC can initiate investigations on its own initiative or upon referral from the Security Council or a State Party. The Court's Prosecutor conducts independent and impartial investigations and brings charges against individuals who are believed to be responsible for the crimes under investigation.
Trials and Convictions
Trials are held before a panel of judges, and the accused is entitled to all the rights and guarantees of a fair trial, including the right to legal representation, the right to cross-examine witnesses, and the right to appeal a conviction or sentence.
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