International Criminal Court (ICC)

The International Criminal Court (ICC), governed by the Rome Statute, is the first permanent, treaty based, international criminal court established to help end impunity for the perpetrators of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.  The ICC is an independent international organisation, and is not part of the United Nations system. Its seat is at The Hague in the Netherlands. Although the Court’s expenses are funded primarily by States Parties, it also receives voluntary contributions from governments, international organisations, individuals, corporations and other entities.  In all of its activities, the ICC observes the highest standards of fairness and due process. The jurisdiction and functioning of the ICC are governed by the Rome Statute. The ICC is based on a treaty, joined by 122 countries (effective as of 1 May 2013). International Cooperation In all of its activities, the Court relies on international cooperation, in particular from States. States Parties are obliged to cooperate fully with the Court in its investigations and prosecutions.  States Parties may cooperate in, inter alia, arresting persons wanted by the Court, providing evidence for use in proceedings, relocating witnesses, and enforcing the sentences of convicted persons. The Court may also receive cooperation from non-States Parties, and may enter into arrangements or agreements to provide cooperation. International organizations also provide important support to the Court.  Foremost among these is the United Nations.  On 4 October 2004, the President of the ICC Philippe Kirsch and the Secretary-General of the United Nations Kofi Annan concluded the Negotiated Relationship Agreement between the International Criminal Court and the United Nations. This Agreement provides for institutional relations, cooperation and judicial assistance between the Court and the United Nations while reaffirming the independence of the Court.