It is two years since a United Nations conference in Rome decided, despite US objections, to create a permanent International Criminal Court to punish those involved in war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. Conditions for American participation continue to cloud negotiations over its operation. Disagreements between the European Union and the US centre on American proposals to exempt its personnel from the Court’s jurisdiction. American backing – and hence key international support – seems at best uncertain.
International Criminal Court: No place to hide
There is still strong opposition in America to the International Criminal Court which will come into being once enough countries have ratified it. Most states see it as a powerful weapon against war crimes and genocide. With or without Washington, it seems certain to go ahead.
