Exploring the International Criminal Court (ICC)

• Global Studies
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 5

Exploring the International Criminal Court (ICC)

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to make up a question that can be used to write an analytical essay on the International Criminal Court (ICC)

Introduce the learning objective of the lesson to the students

What do you already know about the International Criminal Court (ICC)?

What is the ICC?

The ICC is an international tribunal established to investigate and prosecute individuals for international crimes such as genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

There has been made a mistake in this sentence. Can you tell me the mistake?

Introduce the ICC and the types of crimes it prosecutes. Encourage students to take notes

History of the ICC

The ICC was established in 2002 with the ratification of the Rome Statute by 60 countries. Today, 123 countries are parties to the Rome Statute.

What are the four main countries that are NOT part of the ICC?

Provide a brief history of the ICC and its establishment. Highlight the number of countries that are parties to the Rome Statute.

ICC Structure

The ICC is composed of four main organs: the Presidency, the Judiciary, the Office of the Prosecutor, and the Registry.

The Presidency is responsible for the judiciary administrative work of the ICC. The Registry provides essential support so the other organs can do their work for the ICC.  

Explain the structure of the ICC and the roles of each of the four organs. Provide examples if necessary.

ICC Jurisdiction

The ICC has jurisdiction over crimes committed on the territory of a State Party, crimes committed by nationals of a State Party, and crimes referred to it by the UN Security Council.

Both Ukraine and Russia are not a member of the ICC. Still an arrest warrant has been issued against two people in Russia. Can you explain how that is possible?

Explain the different types of jurisdiction of the ICC. Provide examples if necessary.

ICC Investigations

The ICC Prosecutor may initiate an investigation based on information provided by States Parties, the UN Security Council, or on his own initiative (a proprio motu) . The Prosecutor conducts a preliminary examination to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed with an investigation.

Explain the process of ICC investigations. Encourage students to take notes

ICC Trials

Trials at the ICC are conducted by a panel of judges. The accused have the right to a fair trial, including the presumption of innocence, the right to counsel, and the right to appeal.

Explain the process of ICC trials and the rights of the accused. Provide examples if necessary.

Writing an Analytical Essay on the ICC

To write an analytical essay on the ICC, you need to analyze the role and effectiveness of the ICC in addressing international crimes. You should also consider criticisms of the ICC and propose potential solutions.

Provide instructions on how to write an analytical essay on the ICC. Encourage students to ask questions if necessary.

Effectiveness of the ICC

The ICC has had successes, such as the arrest and conviction of war criminals, but it has also faced challenges, including limited jurisdiction and lack of cooperation from some countries.

Discuss the successes and challenges of the ICC.

Criticism of the ICC

Critics argue that the ICC is biased, inefficient, and ineffective. Some countries have withdrawn from the ICC, citing these criticisms.

Explain common criticisms of the ICC.

Proposed Solutions

Proposed solutions to criticism of the ICC include expanding its jurisdiction, increasing funding and resources, and addressing concerns of bias and inefficiency.

Discuss potential solutions to the criticisms of the ICC.

Following this presentation, come up with at least one good question that could be used as an essay question. Make use of ChatGPT!