2025 Day of International Criminal Justice

Today, the Auschwitz Institute for the Prevention of Genocide and Mass Atrocities (AIPG) proudly commemorates the Day of International Criminal Justice, reaffirming its commitment to accountability, justice, and the prevention of mass atrocities around the world.

This year marks the 27th anniversary of the Rome Statute, the landmark treaty adopted in 1998 that established the International Criminal Court (ICC)—the world’s first and only permanent international tribunal dedicated to prosecuting the most serious crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression.

Located in The Hague, Netherlands, the ICC remains a cornerstone of the international justice system. Since entering into force in 2002, the Court has investigated and prosecuted cases across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, reinforcing the principle that no one is above the law. While the Court continues to face legal, political, and operational challenges, it has played a critical role in combating impunity, securing justice for victims, and sending a powerful message: when national systems are unable or unwilling to act, international accountability mechanisms must step in.

As of 2025, 123 States are Parties to the Rome Statute, reflecting broad global support across all regions: 33 from Africa, 19 from Asia-Pacific, 18 from Eastern Europe, 28 from Latin America and the Caribbean, and 25 from Western Europe and other states.

AIPG’s mission aligns closely with the values and goals of the Rome Statute. Through education, training, and technical assistance, AIPG strengthens the capacity of state officials, civil society actors, and other stakeholders to identify, prevent, and respond to atrocity crimes. We firmly believe that achieving justice for past crimes is essential to preventing future violence, and we are proud to support our global alumni network in advancing this goal within their national and regional contexts.

On this Day of International Criminal Justice, AIPG honors the prosecutors, investigators, survivors, civil society organizations, and legal professionals whose tireless efforts drive the pursuit of justice—often in the face of great personal risk. Their unwavering commitment upholds the enduring promise of Never Again, helping to ensure that justice is not only a moral imperative but a lived reality for communities around the world.