The World Day for International Justice, also known as International Justice Day, is observed globally every July 17th. The aim of this day is to uphold the values of justice, advocate for the rights of victims, and prevent grave crimes that pose a threat to global peace and stability.
International Justice Day is a time to acknowledge the significant role the international criminal justice systems play in fostering accountability and world-wide peace.
History of World Day for International Justice
This significant day can be traced back to a diplomatic conference held in Rome, Italy, on July 17, 1998, when the Rome Statute - the treaty that created the International Criminal Court (ICC) - was formally adopted. This was a major step forward in the worldwide battle against invulnerability for severe crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
With The Hague, Netherlands, as its headquarters, the ICC is the world’s only permanent international court. It has a unique mandate to prosecute individuals who commit the most serious crimes warranting international attention. Although the ICC is not part of the United Nations system, it maintains close cooperation with the organization in various aspects.
Proposing the idea to celebrate July 17 as an international day for recognizing the evolution of an international criminal justice system was the Coalition for the International Criminal Court (CICC) - a worldwide coalition of more than 2,500 NGOs - advocating for a more just, effective, and independent ICC, along with improved access to justice for victims of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
At the Review Conference of the Rome Statute in Kampala, Uganda, in 2010, the Assembly of State Parties declared July 17 as the Day of International Criminal Justice. On June 1, 2010, the Review Conference in Kampala officially established this day through the adoption of a resolution.
From then on, July 17 is celebrated around the world by governments, international organizations, NGOs, and individuals who are committed to advocating for justice, promoting the rights of victims, and preventing grave crimes that threaten global peace, security, and well-being.
World Day for International Justice Timeline
Adoption of Rome Statute
120 states adopted the Rome Statute, the international treaty that established the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Rome Statute Entry into Force
The official establishment of the ICC to prosecute individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression.
First World Day for International Justice
The first World Day for International Justice to promote international criminal justice and focus on combating impunity.
20th Anniversary of World Day for International Justice
ICC continues to observe the day in an effort to underscore the ongoing importance of international criminal justice and human rights.
Ideas to Celebrate World Day for International Justice
Human Rights Films Marathon
Host a film viewing marathon featuring movies and documentaries that focus on international justice and human rights issues. This would help raise awareness and promote discussions about themes such as war, genocide, and racism.
Online Webinar Series
Collaborate with legal scholars and human rights experts to host a series of webinars. The webinars can discuss topics such as current international justice issues, the role of international courts and the importance of fair trials.
Social Media Awareness Campaign
Launch a social media campaign using a unique hashtag connected to the International Justice Day. Share information about global justice issues and advocate for equal rights and justice for all.
Educational Workshops
Organize workshops for students and community members, providing them with an understanding of international justice, human rights laws and the court systems which uphold these.
Fundraising for Justice
Organize a charity event or fundraiser dedicated to raising funds for groups supporting victims of human rights violations or are advocating for international justice. This not only bring awareness, but also promote unity and solidarity.
6 Interesting Facts About World Day for International Justice
Aim of the day
The day is marked with the aim of promoting international criminal justice and as a way of supporting the work of the International Criminal Court.
Adoption by the United Nations
The date, July 17th, was chosen because it is the anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute in 1998, which created the International Criminal Court
Worldwide Recognition
This day is recognized worldwide by government organizations, civil and non-profit organizations to pay attention to serious issues like human rights, genocides, crimes of aggression, war crimes, etc.
World Coalition for the ICC
The day is promoted by the World Coalition for the International Criminal Court, a network of over 2500 civil society organizations in 150 different countries.
Importance of the International Criminal Court
The International Criminal Court is the only permanent war crimes court in the world. It was established to ensure that the worst crimes known to humanity do not go unpunished.
Lack of Universal Jurisdiction
Despite its global significance, not all countries are part of the Rome Statute or recognize the International Criminal Court's jurisdiction. This includes the United States, Israel, China, and Russia.
World Day for International Justice FAQs
Next World Day for International Justice Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 17th | Monday |
| 2024 | July 17th | Wednesday |
| 2025 | July 17th | Thursday |
| 2026 | July 17th | Friday |
| 2027 | July 17th | Saturday |
| What is the pattern? | Every July 17th | |
World Day for International Justice Word Search
- Justice
- Equality
- Fairness
- Peace
- Tribunal
- Punishment