ICC

Question 1

ICC Perspective quote

Prosecutor Karim Khan emphasized this ethical stance in a 2023 address:

Answer 1

“The law cannot be a spectator to the suffering of civilians. It must be a shield, and we must wield it with independence and courage” (European Parliament Speech, 2023).

Question 2

Interests

Answer 2

1. Uphold international law
   - Uphold international criminal law, specifically the prosecution of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide, as outlined in the Rome Statute (2002).
2. Deter future violations
   - The ICC aims to deter future violations of international law by ensuring that perpetrators face legal consequences. This deterrent effect is grounded in the belief that accountability can discourage the commission of atrocities.

Question 3

Response 1 Issuing arrest warrants

When/Who/Why?

Article of Rome Statute

Karim Khan quote

Answer 3

In March 2023, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s Commissioner for Children’s Rights for the illegal deportation of 16,000 Ukrainian children to Russian territory.

The court stated these actions amounted to war crimes under Article 8 of the Rome Statute (ICC, 2023).

Prosecutor Karim Khan KC said: “We cannot allow children to be treated as if they are the spoils of war.”

Question 4

Response 2 official investigations

Answer 4

• In March 2022, shortly after the invasion, the ICC opened an official investigation into war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide in Ukraine, with support from 43 member states, the largest referral coalition in ICC history (ICC Statement, 2022).
• The court deployed field teams to Ukraine to gather evidence of indiscriminate shelling, sexual violence, and summary executions, especially in areas like Bucha, Mariupol, and Izium.

Question 5

Effectiveness of arrest warrants

Restriction of travel

Mongolia defiance

Ukraine POV/Zelensky quote

Answer 5

Restricts his participation in global forums and undermines Russia’s international legitimacy. Putin had to skip the 2023 BRICS summit in South Africa, an ICC member, due to the legal risk.

In contrast, Mongolia, who are signed onto the Rome Statute allowed Putin to visit in 2024 without an arrest. Reportedly the visit “aimed to enhance Russian investment in Mongolia, particularly in energy and infrastructure, while also promoting cultural ties (BBC).”

Have helped Ukraine frame the conflict as a fight not just for territory, but for international law and human rights.
“The world received a signal that the international criminal justice system is effective… a historic decision,”

Question 6

Impacts of interests on the conflict

1. Uphold Criminal law
2. Deter future violations

Answer 6

1. Uphold International criminal law –> Issued arrest warrants –> Prevent Putin from travelling –> Limits Russia’s diplomatic ability –> Russia turns to states such as India and China –> Nothing happens in context of war –> Strengthened relationships with these states tension between East and West.
2. Deter future violations –> Investigations into Russian war crimes –> creates a near universal condemnation of Russia’s actions –> Helps garner support for Ukraine.