On July 17th, we celebrate World Day for International Justice, an annual observance recognized worldwide to promote efforts toward ending impunity and strengthening accountability mechanisms. Also known as the Day of International Criminal Justice or International Justice Day, this occasion marks a pivotal moment in legal history, the establishment of a global framework for prosecuting grave crimes like genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
Background:
International Justice Day is observed on July 17th each year to commemorate the historic adoption of the Rome Statute in 19981 and the establishment of the International Criminal Court (‘ICC’). The ICC was created to prosecute individuals responsible for the most serious crimes of concern to the global community, such as, genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and crimes of aggression3. This observance promotes global accountability, honours victims, and reinforces international cooperation in the pursuit of justice.
As William R. Pace2, former convenor of the Coalition for the ICC, aptly stated:
“The strengthening of international criminal justice in the last 20 years, and especially the adoption of the Rome Statute and establishment of the new system of international criminal justice and this great Court, will be viewed as a revolutionary advance for peace and the rule of law.”
Historical references:
- 1998: The Rome Statute4 was adopted by 120 countries in Rome, establishing the legal groundwork for the ICC.
- 2002: ICC officially began functioning in The Hague, Netherlands6.
- 2010: The UN General Assembly declared July 17th as World Day for International Justice to promote awareness of International Criminal Tribunals.
- The day was first proposed by the Coalition for the International Criminal Court (CICC) as a coalition of NGOs dedicated to supporting a fair and independent ICC.
-
The first celebration occurred on 17-07-2010, with global events hosted by civil society groups and governments.
Why celebrated:
- A reminder for all States to act upon justice and human rights around the World.
- Raising awareness about the work of International Criminal Tribunals.
- Encourage Governments and individuals to support legal mechanisms that uphold accountability.
- To support efforts that seek to end impunity for perpetrators of international crimes
- Seeks to ensure continued support for the international justice system, especially the ICC.
- Honors victims and survivors by recognizing their right to justice, reparations, and recognition.
-
Reinforces the importance of the rule of law as a cornerstone of peace, security, and diplomacy.
India’s stance:
India, despite not being a State Party5 to the ICC, continues to support the broader goals of World Day for International Justice through its commitment to the rule of law, national accountability mechanisms, and participation in global peacekeeping missions.
In 2025, the observance of this day focuses on evolving justice systems to address modern issues while stressing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable and supporting victims. Individuals can play a vital role in global justice by supporting human rights organizations, participating in events or campaigns, and sharing trusted information to raise awareness. These actions help build collective momentum and remind us that justice thrives when people choose to act. World Day for International Justice reaffirms the global commitment to peace and accountability amid rising challenges like environmental degradation, cybercrime, and threats to human rights.
