World Justice Day

World Justice Day, also known as International Justice Day, is observed annually on July 17. It commemorates the adoption of the Rome Statute in 1998, which established the International Criminal Court (ICC). This day highlights the importance of international justice systems in combating impunity and promoting global peace.

Quick Facts

When is it? July 17
Tagged as: International Justice Day, Day of International Criminal Justice
What’s the hashtag? #WorldJusticeDay
When was it founded? 2010
Who founded it? Assembly of State Parties

History of World Justice Day

The origins of World Justice Day trace back to July 17, 1998, when the Rome Statute was adopted by 120 states at a diplomatic conference in Rome. This treaty laid the foundation for the ICC, a permanent international court tasked with prosecuting individuals for crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The ICC officially began its operations on July 1, 2002, and the first World Justice Day was celebrated in 2010, marking a milestone in international law.

Timeline

1945: Nuremberg Trials begin to prosecute Nazi war criminals.
1946: Tokyo Tribunal established to punish war criminals in the Far East.
1998: Rome Statute adopted by 120 states.
2002: ICC officially established.
2010: First celebration of World Justice Day.
2024: ICC reaches 124 States Parties.

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	July 17	Thursday
2026	July 17	Friday
2027	July 17	Saturday
2028	July 17	Monday
2029	July 17	Tuesday
2030	July 17	Wednesday

Observed

World Justice Day is celebrated globally with activities such as seminars, workshops, panel discussions, and awareness campaigns. Governments, NGOs, academic institutions, and international bodies organize events to educate people about international justice and the role of the ICC.

Fun Facts About World Justice Day

The ICC operates independently from the United Nations.
The Rome Statute remains one of the most widely recognized treaties in international law.
Thomas Lubanga Dyilo was the first person convicted by the ICC in 2012 for war crimes.

Quiz

When was the Rome Statute adopted?
- (Answer: July 17, 1998)
What is the primary role of the ICC?
- (Answer: To prosecute individuals for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression.)
Where is the ICC headquartered?
- (Answer: The Hague, Netherlands)

FAQs

Q: Why is World Justice Day important?
A: It emphasizes accountability for grave crimes and promotes peace through justice mechanisms.

Q: Can national courts still prosecute these crimes?
A: Yes, the ICC intervenes only when national courts are unable or unwilling to act.

Q: Is participation in World Justice Day limited to governments?
A: No, NGOs, activists, legal practitioners, and citizens also play a significant role.

Importance of World Justice Day

World Justice Day underscores the significance of holding perpetrators accountable for heinous crimes while promoting justice for victims. It strengthens international cooperation and reminds us of our collective responsibility to uphold human rights and ensure global peace.