Statement of ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane on the Day of International Criminal Justice

Twenty-eight years ago today, the Rome Statute was born from a shared conviction: that the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole must not go unpunished. Its adoption made possible the creation of the International Criminal Court, which is the only permanent international criminal court established to end impunity for the perpetrators of those crimes.

Since then, the International Criminal Court has been fulfilling its mandate and is now seized of situations from regions across the world. The Court has never been busier, reflecting the continued relevance of its mission.

On this International Criminal Justice Day, let us recall that the international rule of law cannot exist without independent judicial institutions that uphold the law through the decisions of impartial judges. The International Criminal Court is one such institution. By exercising its jurisdiction over individuals accused of committing the most serious crimes of concern to the international community, the Court provides a necessary mechanism for accountability and offers hope to victims of these grave crimes.

International courts must always remain independent and free from political influence and coercion. This guarantees their impartiality and ensures fair proceedings. Yet in recent years, international law has come under increasing pressure, through both direct attacks and a weakening of the commitment to uphold it. It has never been more important than it is today to defend the international rule of law and to continue the pursuit of justice. Even in the most challenging times, the International Criminal Court will remain steadfast in its mission: to bring justice to the victims of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.

Thanks to the continued support of States Parties and civil society, and the commitment of its staff, the Court is able to continue delivering on its demanding but indispensable mandate. On this International Criminal Justice Day, let us remember that the pursuit of justice is a shared responsibility. Above all, let us remember those who are still waiting for justice for the crimes committed against them.

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