This podcast episode of The Inquiry investigates the International Criminal Court (ICC), examining its function, effectiveness, and challenges. The episode features interviews with experts in international law, discussing the ICC's history, structure (including its independence from the UN), and its successes and failures in prosecuting war crimes and crimes against humanity. The discussion highlights the low conviction rate and the ICC's reliance on state cooperation, while also noting the significant symbolic impact of its work. The podcast concludes by analyzing the potential threats to the ICC's existence, particularly from US sanctions and the challenges of prosecuting high-profile individuals. For example, the podcast details the case of Thomas Lubanga, the ICC's first conviction for enlisting child soldiers.
