Pax Christi International and PAX has joined 70 other civil society organisations in calling on the European Union to uphold the integrity of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is facing renewed attacks on its mandate and mission. 

Undermining the ICC threatens justice for victims and weakens the international rules-based order. The EU must act decisively to safeguard the ICC’s independence and legitimacy. 

Human rights groups are urging the European Union to take a firm stand in defense of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is facing mounting threats from U.S. sanctions to cyberattacks and political backlash. A new executive order from U.S. President Donald Trump allows sanctions on ICC officials and their supporters, directly undermining the Court’s work in holding powerful figures accountable for crimes like genocide and war crimes. While individual EU member states have condemned the move, the EU as a whole has yet to issue a strong, unified response. 

The NGOs are calling on top EU leaders like Ursula von der Leyen and Kaja Kallas to speak out, activate the EU Blocking Statute to counter U.S. interference, and ensure full cooperation with the ICC, including enforcing arrest warrants. With some EU countries failing to meet their obligations, this moment demands leadership. A strong, united EU stance is crucial to protect the ICC’s independence and uphold the global rule of law. 

Read the full article here:EU Should Defend the ICC