ICC seeks EU backing to protect court’s work

International Criminal Court Registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler called Wednesday for political support from European Union member states to ensure the court can continue its work “undeterred” amid growing pressure from the United States.

Giler made the appeal during meetings in Brussels with EU representatives at the Working Party on Public International Law – International Criminal Court subgroup, known as COJUR-ICC.

Speaking in a video message, he said the court must strengthen its own mechanisms and processes to ensure sustainable operations, but added that the ICC also needs political backing from its member states.

“Ensuring that justice is resilient and that the ICC continues to do its work undeterred requires work,” Giler said, calling for joint efforts to protect the court’s ability to operate.

EU support sought

Giler said his meetings in Brussels focused on ways EU member states could provide political support to the ICC and help strengthen the resilience of its operations.

The ICC said he urged support for its mission to deliver justice to victims of the gravest crimes.

The appeal comes as the court faces increasing pressure from Washington. The United States has sanctioned 13 ICC officials, including nine of the court’s 18 judges.

US criticism intensifies

US President Donald Trump renewed his criticism of the ICC during his address to the United Nations General Assembly last week, calling on countries to withdraw from the court.

Washington’s opposition intensified after the ICC issued arrest warrants in 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza.

The United States and Israel are not members of the ICC and reject the court’s jurisdiction in the case.

Giler’s appeal comes as the court seeks continued political and institutional support from its member states to maintain its operations amid external pressure.

Source:AA