The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Criminal Court (ICC) are two distinct entities working towards a common goal – upholding international humanitarian law. Let’s delve into how these organizations operate independently yet complement each other in their efforts.
What is the role of the ICRC?
- The ICRC is a neutral and impartial humanitarian organization.
- It provides assistance and protection to victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence.
- The ICRC also promotes and disseminates international humanitarian law.
How does the ICC contribute to upholding international humanitarian law?
- The ICC is a court of last resort with jurisdiction over the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.
- It holds individuals accountable for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression.
- The ICC complements the work of the ICRC by prosecuting those responsible for grave breaches of international law.
While the ICRC focuses on providing immediate assistance and protection to victims, the ICC’s mandate is to hold perpetrators of international crimes accountable through legal proceedings. Together, these two institutions play a crucial role in promoting respect for international humanitarian law and seeking justice for victims of atrocities.
Source: www.icrc.org