Judge Beti Hohler warned that sanctions and warrants against ICC officials could erode the rule of law worldwide.
International Criminal Court (ICC) Judge Beti Hohler has issued a stark warning over sanctions and arrest warrants targeting ICC officials, describing them as “a particularly grave and unprecedented challenge” to the Court’s independence.
Speaking at our recent event in Belfast, Judge Hohler condemned the measures, which include U.S. economic sanctions and Russian arrest warrants imposed on ICC judges following investigations into alleged war crimes by U.S., Israeli and Russian officials.
The recent attacks on the International Criminal Court are an example of a particularly grave and unprecedented challenge,” Judge Hohler said. They are aimed directly at the Court’s independence.”
The judge, herself sanctioned by the United States, highlighted the personal and professional impact of such measures:
These attacks are not just political statements; they have real life implications for us and our family members. They represent a challenge for the Court, but they also underline the Court’s enduring relevance and importance of its mandate.”
Judge Hohler also warned of the wider consequences of undermining international courts:
When international courts and organisations are weakened, the erosion of international law will inevitably trickle down to the national level, weakening the rule of law for all.”
Closing her address, she called for solidarity across the global legal community:
No lawyer or judge is an island. Defending the Rule of Law requires solidarity and collaboration. Cross-border networks help resist attempts to isolate or silence legal professionals. Solidarity strengthens resilience.
As Judge Hohler reminded us, “No lawyer or judge is an island.” At IRLI, we echo this call for solidarity - building cross-border networks and supporting those who defend justice in the face of pressure. Strengthening the rule of law requires collaboration across professions and communities, and IRLI is committed to advancing that work internationally.