What impact does an ICC investigation have on ongoing conflicts?

Abstract

This essay concentrated on the cases of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, and Sudan in the study on how the International Criminal Court’s (ICC’s) investigation affects current wars. The research presents three hypotheses based on the examination of these three cases: ICC investigations can prevent violence by discouraging offenders, result in the termination of hostilities and the establishment of a new order, or occasionally even exacerbate them. The findings show that while the ICC’s involvement has had some success in weakening violent groups and reducing acts of violence, challenges remain in bringing a complete end to conflict and achieving lasting peace. This paper proposes to amend the Rome Statute to require all States, including non-member States, to arrest defendants who committed international law when necessary to improve the inadequate enforcement of ICC judgments. Through such measures, societies can more effectively achieve a balance between justice and peacekeeping.