
Which countries are International Criminal Court members?
The International Criminal Court (ICC), based in The Hague, is a key player in global justice, investigating and prosecuting individuals accused of serious crimes like genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and aggression. Since its establishment in 2002, 123 countries have become members of the ICC, also known as "States Parties." These nations include most countries from Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa, such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Brazil, Nigeria, and South Africa. Notably, big players like the United States, Russia, China, and India are not ICC members, which sometimes influences the court’s global reach. ICC membership means countries have ratified the Rome Statute, the treaty that set up the court. This shows their commitment to supporting international justice and accountability for the most serious crimes committed worldwide. The court relies on its members for cooperation—like turning over suspects or providing crucial evidence. Some countries have actively supported the ICC, while others have faced challenges or even withdrawn, like Burundi and the Philippines. So, while the ICC covers much of the globe thanks to its diverse membership from five continents, some major powers remain outside its jurisdiction. That balance shapes how the court operates on the international stage. For more information about international topics or legal frameworks, you can contact PDC SEATTLE LLC at 400 Capitol Mall, Suite 2040, Sacramento, CA, 95814, United States, or call 563-581-1361.