The International Criminal Court (ICC) has strongly condemned new sanctions imposed by Washington against its President Judge Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye. This Hague-based international tribunal has termed these American actions as a direct threat to the global justice system and a major attack on judicial independence. The Court says that such punitive measures seriously affect the process of providing justice to victims of war crimes.
Expressing concern at the ICJ and other global forums, the ICC said that such intimidation of officials weakens the international legal system. After the recent sanctions, the situation has become such that the US has banned 9 out of 18 judges of the tribunal, both deputy-prosecutors, a former prosecutor and a staff member. The Court has stated in clear words that when those involved in justice are intimidated to enforce the law, it creates a major hurdle in the ongoing fight against impunity globally.
Despite the ever-increasing pressure and sanctions from Washington, the ICC has made its stand completely clear saying that it will not yield to any pressure. The court reiterated in its statement that it stands firmly with its employees and the victims of atrocities without fear. At the same time, it will continue to discharge its duties without discrimination, in full compliance with the provisions of the Rome Statute. The court has also expressed gratitude for the support shown by the governments and civil society of many countries in this difficult time.
On the other hand, there has been a sharp reaction in this matter from the American administration. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement released on Tuesday that the action is part of his campaign against the ICC's alleged “politicization” and tendency to “avoid accountability.” The Trump administration argues that the ICC attempts to assert jurisdiction over citizens of countries that have not ratified the Rome Statute. The US has justified these sanctions under Executive Order 14203, saying that it will not tolerate any external judicial interference on its sovereignty and will continue its diplomatic campaign against the Court.