The role of International Criminal Courts in advancing global justice and conflict resolution

Abstract

International criminal court have an important role in contemporary era by prosecuting individual perpetrators of serious crimes like genocide and war crimes. Unlike traditional dispute resolution bodies, such courts do not directly resolve states disputes, but they help resolve disputes indirectly through rule of law as well as accountability. International criminal courts, like the International Criminal Court and other ad hoc tribunals, have assisted with regards to the creation of legal accountability for atrocities, which has helped deter such crimes from taking place and bring about reconciliation after conflict. They are, however, beset with political interference, restrictions of jurisdiction, and enforcement issues. This research discusses international criminal courts primary role in dispute settlement and conclude that they do not settle disputes. Still, they are very much important in the advancement of international peace and justice through prevention, accountability, & law development.