The International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) are two of the world’s most important international judicial institutions, yet they serve fundamentally different purposes. While the ICC prosecutes individuals accused of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression under the Rome Statute, the ICJ resolves legal disputes between sovereign states and provides advisory opinions to United Nations organs under the UN Charter. Understanding the distinction between these two courts is essential for anyone studying international law, global governance, diplomacy, and contemporary world affairs.
This article provides a comprehensive comparison of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), covering their history, legal basis, jurisdiction, composition, powers, procedures, enforcement mechanisms, relationship with the United Nations, landmark cases, key provisions of the Rome Statute and the ICJ Statute, and major differences in their roles and functions. Whether you are preparing for UPSC, State PCS, UGC-NET, CLAT, Judiciary, International Relations, Political Science, Law, Public Administration, or Current Affairs, this guide offers a clear, practical, and exam-oriented understanding of one of the most frequently asked topics in international law.
Author: Darshita Neeraj
Senior Researcher,
Mudita Learning and Knowledge Private Limited
Email: info@muditabooks.com
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