Foreign Ministers of Eight Countries Categorically Disagree With US Sanctions Against ICC

The foreign ministers of Canada, Denmark, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement. They categorically disagreed with the sanctions announced by the United States against the International Criminal Court (ICC).

The statement reads: "We, the States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), reaffirm once again our firm and unwavering support for the independence, impartiality and integrity of the ICC".

The countries note that they are steadfast supporters of the ICC, and therefore they regret and categorically disagree with the sanctions imposed by the United States against the court.

According to them, they appreciate the work the court has done to prepare for such measures, so that it can continue to fulfill its mandate under the Rome Statute. In this process, they emphasize their unwavering support for assisting the court.

According to the statement, if the sanctions take effect, they will have a significant impact on the court's work, its dedicated staff and their families. These employees work every day to hold accountable those charged with the most serious international crimes and to support victims.

The countries remain united in supporting the ICC and are ready to engage in constructive and inclusive dialogue with non-member states in the course of preparations for the Assembly of States Parties planned for December 2026.

The statement also says that they will continue to work together to support the court's vital work, to defend the rules-based international system and to advance the principle of accountability.