World Day for International Justice: Promoting Global Equity

Overview and History

• World Day for International Justice celebrated annually on July 17
• Also known as Day of International Criminal Justice or International Justice Day
• Commemorates the adoption of the Rome Statute in 1998
• Recognizes the system of international justice and its importance
• Highlights the role of international tribunals and courts in bringing justice to victims of war crimes and crimes against humanity
• Roots trace back to post-World War II trials, including the Nuremberg trials and Tokyo War Crimes Tribunal
• These trials set precedents for prosecuting crimes against humanity and war crimes

Establishment of the International Criminal Court (ICC)

• Rome Statute adopted on July 17, 1998, by 120 states
• Led to the establishment of the ICC in 2002
• ICC is a permanent court that investigates and prosecutes serious international crimes
• Focuses on genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and (since 2018) the crime of aggression
• Operates when national authorities are unable or unwilling to act genuinely
• Cannot replace national courts but serves as a complementary system
• In 2010, the Assembly of State Parties decided to celebrate July 17 as World Day for International Justice

Significance and Themes

• 2024 theme (yet to be established) expected to focus on uniting stakeholders in support of justice and victims of crime
• Strengthens the principle that no person is above the law
• Sends a clear message that perpetrators of heinous crimes will be held accountable
• Provides a platform for victims to share their experiences and seek justice
• Highlights cases prosecuted by the ICC and the broader framework of international criminal law
• Encourages nations to collaborate in enhancing the international criminal justice system
• Promotes reforms necessary for justice and prevention of future crimes
• Emphasizes the importance of making the world a just and fair place to live

Importance of World Day for International Justice:

1. Promotes justice:

• • Brings communities, countries, and organizations together
  • Provides redressal for grievous crimes
  • Offers closure for victims

2. Pays homage to the justice system:

• • Acknowledges the role of the International Criminal Court
  • Supports the system that addresses humanity's worst crimes
  • Helps deter future crimes

3. Acknowledges the worth of every human:

• • Emphasizes that people should not fear for their safety or dignity
  • Highlights the existence of an international court advocating for fair litigation
  • Reminds us of the growing number of people fighting for justice and safety

Observance and Participation

Ways to observe World Day for International Justice:

a) Remember the victims:

• Learn about victims and those fighting for justice
• Show solidarity by acknowledging their fight
• Write articles or blogs to highlight their efforts

b) Attend events:

• Member countries organize supportive events
• Some events are broadcast online, on television, or radio
• Research websites to find attendance information

c) Support the cause:

• Research non-governmental organizations working for justice-related causes
• Consider donating or volunteering talents to these organizations