The ICC holds world leaders accountable

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is one of the institutions that has the capacity to change how justice is practised around the world, according to legal history. It was founded in 2002 with the bold goal of eradicating impunity on a worldwide scale. Harvard Professor of Law Alan Dershowitz defines impunity as “the exemption from punishment or accountability”. It is crucial to assess the ICC’s performance in carrying out this mandate as it enters its third decade of operation. I will examine four key areas where the ICC has been successful. However, we also point out opportunities for the next generation of judges, attorneys, and change agents, in particular Gen Z, to strengthen the struggle against impunity.

KEY AREAS OF SUCCESS

Bringing perpetrators to justice

According to ICC data, approximately 60 people have been charged, including important military and political leaders. Famous cases, like those involving former vice- president Jean-Pierre Bemba of the Congo, and Sudan’s Omar al-Bashir, have shown the ICC’s resolve to combat impunity at the highest levels.

Deterrence and prevention

According to recent data from the UN, genocide and other crimes against humanity are less common in areas where the ICC has been active.

Empowering victims and communities

The ICC places a heavy focus on giving victims and impacted communities a voice. According to recent ICC publications, approximately 3,000 victims have taken part in ICC proceedings, with millions of dollars set aside for reparations.

Advancing accountability globally

According to Professor Dershowitz, “The ICC has ushered in a new era of global accountability, emphasising that no individual is untouchable when it comes to international crimes. It has also prompted several countries to implement domestic legal reforms, to ensure that their legal systems can properly prosecute international crimes.”

While the ICC has made great progress in its fight against impunity, it nonetheless faces continuous problems and areas for reform. Generation Z, known for our activism and devotion to justice, has the potential to play a critical role in addressing these concerns. Here are three crucial areas where the next generation may contribute:

• Strengthening Global Cooperation: To arrest and surrender indicted individuals, the ICC relies on the assistance of governments. To ensure that fugitives are arrested as soon as possible, Generation Z can lobby for stronger international alliances.

• Enhancing outreach and education: Gen Z can leverage their digital savvy to raise awareness about the ICC’s work, and educate the public on the importance of accountability and the consequences of impunity.

• Advocating for universal ratification: While many nations have accepted the Rome Statute, some prominent players remain beyond the jurisdiction of the ICC. Gen Z can seek to persuade other countries to join the ICC, thus broadening its reach and impact.

TAJAY FRANCIS