International Criminal Court Urged to Tackle Environmental Crimes and End Impunity
Authors:
Nicholas Vincent and One Green Planet
Date:
30 March 2024
Category:
Criminal Enforcement
Keyword:
International Treaties
Language:
English
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In a groundbreaking call to action, the International Criminal Court (ICC) is being urged to confront environmental crimes head-on. This plea for justice comes from a diverse group of academics, lawyers, and activists worldwide, spotlighting a critical gap in the ICC’s current mandate. Their collective voice responds to ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan’s February announcement of a forthcoming policy paper focused on environmental crimes, signaling a potential shift towards holding individuals accountable for ecological harm.
The heart of their argument lies in the inadequacy of the Rome Statute—the ICC’s foundational treaty—to address environmental devastation not only in times of war but also in peace. Despite the statute’s singular nod to environmental protection within the context of war crimes, it’s argued that its scope should be broadened. The consultation process unearthed a consensus on the pressing need for the ICC to adapt to contemporary challenges, including the recognition of the human right to a healthy environment and the escalating criminalization of ecocide.