UNITED NATIONS
2000
PREAMBLE
The
States Parties to this Statute,
Conscious
that all peoples are united by common bonds, their cultures pieced together
in a shared heritage, and concerned that this delicate mosaic may be shattered
at any time,
Mindful
that during this century millions of children, women and men have been
victims of unimaginable atrocities that deeply shock the conscience of
humanity,
Recognizing
that such grave crimes threaten the peace, security and well-being of the
world,
Affirming
that the most serious crimes of concern to the international community
as a whole must not go unpunished and that their effective prosecution
must be ensured by taking measures at the national level and by enhancing
international cooperation,
Determined
to put an end to impunity for the perpetrators of these crimes and thus
to contribute to the prevention of such crimes,
Recalling
that it is the duty of every State to exercise its criminal jurisdiction
over those responsible for international crimes,
Reaffirming
the Purposes and Principles of the Charter of the United Nations, and in
particular that all States shall refrain from the threat or use of force
against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State,
or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations,
Emphasizing
in this connection that nothing in this Statute shall be taken as authorizing
any State Party to intervene in an armed conflict or in the internal affairs
of any State,
Determined
to these ends and for the sake of present and future generations, to establish
an independent permanent International Criminal Court in relationship with
the United Nations system, with jurisdiction over the most serious crimes
of concern to the international community as a whole,
Emphasizing
that the International Criminal Court established under this Statute shall
be complementary to national criminal jurisdictions,
Resolved
to guarantee lasting respect for and the enforcement of international justice,
Have
agreed as follows:
PART 1. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE COURT
Article 1
The Court
An International Criminal Court ("the Court") is hereby established. It
shall be a permanent institution and shall have the power to exercise its
jurisdiction over persons for the most serious crimes of international
concern, as referred to in this Statute, and shall be complementary to
national criminal jurisdictions. The jurisdiction and functioning of the
Court shall be governed by the provisions of this Statute.
Article 2
Relationship of the Court with the United Nations
The Court shall be brought into relationship with the United Nations through
an agreement to be approved by the Assembly of States Parties to this Statute
and thereafter concluded by the President of the Court on its behalf.
Article 3
Seat of the Court
1. The
seat of the Court shall be established at The Hague in the Netherlands
("the host State").
2. The
Court shall enter into a headquarters agreement with the host State, to
be approved by the Assembly of States Parties and thereafter concluded
by the President of the Court on its behalf.
3. The
Court may sit elsewhere, whenever it considers it desirable, as provided
in this Statute.
Article 4
Legal status and powers of the Court
1. The
Court shall have international legal personality. It shall also have such
legal capacity as may be necessary for the exercise of its functions and
the fulfilment of its purposes.
2. The
Court may exercise its functions and powers, as provided in this Statute,
on the territory of any State Party and, by special agreement, on the territory
of any other State.
PART 2. JURISDICTION, ADMISSIBILITY AND APPLICABLE LAW
Article 5
Crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court
1. The
jurisdiction of the Court shall be limited to the most serious crimes of
concern to the international community as a whole. The Court has jurisdiction
in accordance with this Statute with respect to the following crimes:
(a) The crime of genocide;
(b) Crimes against humanity;
(c) War crimes;
(d) The crime of aggression.
2. The Court
shall exercise jurisdiction over the crime of aggression once a provision
is adopted in accordance with articles 121 and 123 defining the crime and
setting out the conditions under which the Court shall exercise jurisdiction
with respect to this crime. Such a provision shall be consistent with the
relevant provisions of the Charter of the United Nations.
Article 6
Genocide
For the purpose of this Statute, "genocide" means any of the following
acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national,
ethnical, racial or religious group, as such:
(a) Killing members of the group;
(b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members
of the group;
(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions
of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or
in part;
(d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births
within the group;
(e) Forcibly transferring children of the group
to another group.
Article 7
Crimes against humanity
1. For
the purpose of this Statute, "crime against humanity" means any of the
following acts when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack
directed against any civilian population, with knowledge of the attack:
(a) Murder;
(b) Extermination;
(c) Enslavement;
(d) Deportation or forcible transfer of population;
(e) Imprisonment or other severe deprivation of
physical liberty in violation of fundamental rules of international law;
(f) Torture;
(g) Rape, sexual slavery, enforced prostitution,
forced pregnancy, enforced sterilization, or any other form of sexual violence
of comparable gravity;
(h) Persecution against any identifiable group
or collectivity on political, racial, national, ethnic, cultural, religious,
gender as defined in paragraph 3, or other grounds that are universally
recognized as impermissible under international law, in connection with
any act referred to in this paragraph or any crime within the jurisdiction
of the Court;
(i) Enforced disappearance of persons;
(j) The crime of apartheid;
(k) Other inhumane acts of a similar character
intentionally causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or to
mental or physical health.
2. For
the purpose of paragraph 1:
(a) "Attack directed against any civilian population"
means a course of conduct involving the multiple commission of acts referred
to in paragraph 1 against any civilian population, pursuant to or in furtherance
of a State or organizational policy to commit such attack;
(b) "Extermination" includes the intentional infliction
of conditions of life, inter alia the deprivation of access to food
and medicine, calculated to bring about the destruction of part of a population;
(c) "Enslavement" means the exercise of any or
all of the powers attaching to the right of ownership over a person and
includes the exercise of such power in the course of trafficking in persons,
in particular women and children;
(d) "Deportation or forcible transfer of population"
means forced displacement of the persons concerned by expulsion or other
coercive acts from the area in which they are lawfully present, without
grounds permitted under international law;
(e) "Torture" means the intentional infliction
of severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, upon a person
in the custody or under the control of the accused; except that torture
shall not include pain or suffering arising only from, inherent in or incidental
to, lawful sanctions;
(f) "Forced pregnancy" means the unlawful confinement
of a woman forcibly made pregnant, with the intent of affecting the ethnic
composition of any population or carrying out other grave violations of
international law. This definition shall not in any way be interpreted
as affecting national laws relating to pregnancy;
(g) "Persecution" means the intentional and severe
deprivation of fundamental rights contrary to international law by reason
of the identity of the group or collectivity;
(h) "The crime of apartheid" means inhumane acts
of a character similar to those referred to in paragraph 1, committed in
the context of an institutionalized regime of systematic oppression and
domination by one racial group over any other racial group or groups and
committed with the intention of maintaining that regime;
(i) "Enforced disappearance of persons" means the
arrest, detention or abduction of persons by, or with the authorization,
support or acquiescence of, a State or a political organization, followed
by a refusal to acknowledge that deprivation of freedom or to give information
on the fate or whereabouts of those persons, with the intention of removing
them from the protection of the law for a prolonged period of time.
3. For
the purpose of this Statute, it is understood that the term "gender" refers
to the two sexes, male and female, within the context of society. The term
"gender" does not indicate any meaning different from the above.
Article 8
War crimes
1. The
Court shall have jurisdiction in respect of war crimes in particular when
committed as part of a plan or policy or as part of a large-scale commission
of such crimes.
2. For
the purpose of this Statute, "war crimes" means:
(a) Grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of
12 August 1949, namely, any of the following acts against persons or property
protected under the provisions of the relevant Geneva Convention:
(i) Wilful killing;
(ii) Torture or inhuman treatment, including biological
experiments;
(iii) Wilfully causing great suffering, or serious
injury to body or health;
(iv) Extensive destruction and appropriation of
property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully
and wantonly;
(v) Compelling a prisoner of war or other protected
person to serve in the forces of a hostile Power;
(vi) Wilfully depriving a prisoner of war or other
protected person of the rights of fair and regular trial;
(vii) Unlawful deportation or transfer or unlawful
confinement;
(viii) Taking of hostages.
(b) Other serious violations of the laws and customs
applicable in international armed conflict, within the established framework
of international law, namely, any of the following acts:
(i) Intentionally directing attacks against the
civilian population as such or against individual civilians not taking
direct part in hostilities;
(ii) Intentionally directing attacks against civilian
objects, that is, objects which are not military objectives;
(iii) Intentionally directing attacks against personnel,
installations, material, units or vehicles involved in a humanitarian assistance
or peacekeeping mission in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations,
as long as they are entitled to the protection given to civilians or civilian
objects under the international law of armed conflict;
(iv) Intentionally launching an attack in the knowledge
that such attack will cause incidental loss of life or injury to civilians
or damage to civilian objects or widespread, long-term and severe damage
to the natural environment which would be clearly excessive in relation
to the concrete and direct overall military advantage anticipated;
(v) Attacking or bombarding, by whatever means,
towns, villages, dwellings or buildings which are undefended and which
are not military objectives;
(vi) Killing or wounding a combatant who, having
laid down his arms or having no longer means of defence, has surrendered
at discretion;
(vii) Making improper use of a flag of truce, of
the flag or of the military insignia and uniform of the enemy or of the
United Nations, as well as of the distinctive emblems of the Geneva Conventions,
resulting in death or serious personal injury;
(viii) The transfer, directly or indirectly, by
the Occupying Power of parts of its own civilian population into the territory
it occupies, or the deportation or transfer of all or parts of the population
of the occupied territory within or outside this territory;
(ix) Intentionally directing attacks against buildings
dedicated to religion, education, art, science or charitable purposes,
historic monuments, hospitals and places where the sick and wounded are
collected, provided they are not military objectives;
(x) Subjecting persons who are in the power of
an adverse party to physical mutilation or to medical or scientific experiments
of any kind which are neither justified by the medical, dental or hospital
treatment of the person concerned nor carried out in his or her interest,
and which cause death to or seriously endanger the health of such person
or persons;
(xi) Killing or wounding treacherously individuals
belonging to the hostile nation or army;
(xii) Declaring that no quarter will be given;
(xiii) Destroying or seizing the enemy's property
unless such destruction or seizure be imperatively demanded by the necessities
of war;
(xiv) Declaring abolished, suspended or inadmissible
in a court of law the rights and actions of the nationals of the hostile
party;
(xv) Compelling the nationals of the hostile party
to take part in the operations of war directed against their own country,
even if they were in the belligerent's service before the commencement
of the war;
(xvi) Pillaging a town or place, even when taken
by assault;
(xvii) Employing poison or poisoned weapons;
(xviii) Employing asphyxiating, poisonous or other
gases, and all analogous liquids, materials or devices;
(xix) Employing bullets which expand or flatten
easily in the human body, such as bullets with a hard envelope which does
not entirely cover the core or is pierced with incisions;
(xx) Employing weapons, projectiles and material
and methods of warfare which are of a nature to cause superfluous injury
or unnecessary suffering or which are inherently indiscriminate in violation
of the international law of armed conflict, provided that such weapons,
projectiles and material and methods of warfare are the subject of a comprehensive
prohibition and are included in an annex to this Statute, by an amendment
in accordance with the relevant provisions set forth in articles 121 and
123;
(xxi) Committing outrages upon personal dignity,
in particular humiliating and degrading treatment;
(xxii) Committing rape, sexual slavery, enforced
prostitution, forced pregnancy, as defined in article 7, paragraph 2 (f),
enforced sterilization, or any other form of sexual violence also constituting
a grave breach of the Geneva Conventions;
(xxiii) Utilizing the presence of a civilian or
other protected person to render certain points, areas or military forces
immune from military operations;
(xxiv) Intentionally directing attacks against
buildings, material, medical units and transport, and personnel using the
distinctive emblems of the Geneva Conventions in conformity with international
law;
(xxv) Intentionally using starvation of civilians
as a method of warfare by depriving them of objects indispensable to their
survival, including wilfully impeding relief supplies as provided for under
the Geneva Conventions;
(xxvi) Conscripting or enlisting children under
the age of fifteen years into the national armed forces or using them to
participate actively in hostilities.
(c) In the case of an armed conflict not of an
international character, serious violations of article 3 common to the
four Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, namely, any of the following
acts committed against persons taking no active part in the hostilities,
including members of armed forces who have laid down their arms and those
placed hors de combat by sickness, wounds, detention or any other
cause:
(i) Violence to life and person, in particular
murder of all kinds, mutilation, cruel treatment and torture;
(ii) Committing outrages upon personal dignity,
in particular humiliating and degrading treatment;
(iii) Taking of hostages;
(iv) The passing of sentences and the carrying
out of executions without previous judgement pronounced by a regularly
constituted court, affording all judicial guarantees which are generally
recognized as indispensable.
(d) Paragraph 2 (c) applies to armed conflicts
not of an international character and thus does not apply to situations
of internal disturbances and tensions, such as riots, isolated and sporadic
acts of violence or other acts of a similar nature.
(e) Other serious violations of the laws and customs
applicable in armed conflicts not of an international character, within
the established framework of international law, namely, any of the following
acts:
(i) Intentionally directing attacks against the
civilian population as such or against individual civilians not taking
direct part in hostilities;
(ii) Intentionally directing attacks against buildings,
material, medical units and transport, and personnel using the distinctive
emblems of the Geneva Conventions in conformity with international law;
(iii) Intentionally directing attacks against personnel,
installations, material, units or vehicles involved in a humanitarian assistance
or peacekeeping mission in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations,
as long as they are entitled to the protection given to civilians or civilian
objects under the international law of armed conflict;
(iv) Intentionally directing attacks against buildings
dedicated to religion, education, art, science or charitable purposes,
historic monuments, hospitals and places where the sick and wounded are
collected, provided they are not military objectives;
(v) Pillaging a town or place, even when taken
by assault;
(vi) Committing rape, sexual slavery, enforced
prostitution, forced pregnancy, as defined in article 7, paragraph 2 (f),
enforced sterilization, and any other form of sexual violence also constituting
a serious violation of article 3 common to the four Geneva Conventions;
(vii) Conscripting or enlisting children under
the age of fifteen years into armed forces or groups or using them to participate
actively in hostilities;
(viii) Ordering the displacement of the civilian
population for reasons related to the conflict, unless the security of
the civilians involved or imperative military reasons so demand;
(ix) Killing or wounding treacherously a combatant
adversary;
(x) Declaring that no quarter will be given;
(xi) Subjecting persons who are in the power of
another party to the conflict to physical mutilation or to medical or scientific
experiments of any kind which are neither justified by the medical, dental
or hospital treatment of the person concerned nor carried out in his or
her interest, and which cause death to or seriously endanger the health
of such person or persons;
(xii) Destroying or seizing the property of an
adversary unless such destruction or seizure be imperatively demanded by
the necessities of the conflict;
(f) Paragraph 2 (e) applies to armed conflicts not of an international
character and thus does not apply to situations of internal disturbances
and tensions, such as riots, isolated and sporadic acts of violence or
other acts of a similar nature. It applies to armed conflicts that take
place in the territory of a State when there is protracted armed conflict
between governmental authorities and organized armed groups or between
such groups.
3. Nothing
in paragraph 2 (c) and (e) shall affect the responsibility of a Government
to maintain or re-establish law and order in the State or to defend the
unity and territorial integrity of the State, by all legitimate means.
Article 9
Elements of Crimes
1. Elements
of Crimes shall assist the Court in the interpretation and application
of articles 6, 7 and 8. They shall be adopted by a two-thirds majority
of the members of the Assembly of States Parties.
2. Amendments
to the Elements of Crimes may be proposed by:
(a) Any State Party;
(b) The judges acting by an absolute majority;
(c) The Prosecutor.
Such amendments shall be adopted by a two-thirds majority
of the members of the Assembly of States Parties.
3. The
Elements of Crimes and amendments thereto shall be consistent with this
Statute.
Article 10
Nothing in this Part shall be interpreted as limiting or prejudicing in
any way existing or developing rules of international law for purposes
other than this Statute.
Article 11
Jurisdiction ratione temporis
1. The
Court has jurisdiction only with respect to crimes committed after the
entry into force of this Statute.
2. If
a State becomes a Party to this Statute after its entry into force, the
Court may exercise its jurisdiction only with respect to crimes committed
after the entry into force of this Statute for that State, unless that
State has made a declaration under article 12, paragraph 3.
Article 12
Preconditions to the exercise of jurisdiction
1. A State
which becomes a Party to this Statute thereby accepts the jurisdiction
of the Court with respect to the crimes referred to in article 5.
2. In
the case of article 13, paragraph (a) or (c), the Court may exercise its
jurisdiction if one or more of the following States are Parties to this
Statute or have accepted the jurisdiction of the Court in accordance with
paragraph 3:
(a) The State on the territory of which the conduct
in question occurred or, if the crime was committed on board a vessel or
aircraft, the State of registration of that vessel or aircraft;
(b) The State of which the person accused of the
crime is a national.
3. If
the acceptance of a State which is not a Party to this Statute is required
under paragraph 2, that State may, by declaration lodged with the Registrar,
accept the exercise of jurisdiction by the Court with respect to the crime
in question. The accepting State shall cooperate with the Court without
any delay or exception in accordance with Part 9.
Article 13
Exercise of jurisdiction
The Court may exercise its jurisdiction with respect to a crime referred
to in article 5 in accordance with the provisions of this Statute if:
(a) A situation in which one or more of such crimes
appears to have been committed is referred to the Prosecutor by a State
Party in accordance with article 14;
(b) A situation in which one or more of such crimes
appears to have been committed is referred to the Prosecutor by the Security
Council acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations;
or
(c) The Prosecutor has initiated an investigation
in respect of such a crime in accordance with article 15.
Article 14
Referral of a situation by a State Party
1. A State
Party may refer to the Prosecutor a situation in which one or more crimes
within the jurisdiction of the Court appear to have been committed requesting
the Prosecutor to investigate the situation for the purpose of determining
whether one or more specific persons should be charged with the commission
of such crimes.
2. As
far as possible, a referral shall specify the relevant circumstances and
be accompanied by such supporting documentation as is available to the
State referring the situation.
Article 15
Prosecutor
1. The
Prosecutor may initiate investigations proprio motu on the basis
of information on crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court.
2. The
Prosecutor shall analyse the seriousness of the information received. For
this purpose, he or she may seek additional information from States, organs
of the United Nations, intergovernmental or non-governmental organizations,
or other reliable sources that he or she deems appropriate, and may receive
written or oral testimony at the seat of the Court.
3. If
the Prosecutor concludes that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with
an investigation, he or she shall submit to the Pre-Trial Chamber a request
for authorization of an investigation, together with any supporting material
collected. Victims may make representations to the Pre-Trial Chamber, in
accordance with the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
4. If
the Pre-Trial Chamber, upon examination of the request and the supporting
material, considers that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an
investigation, and that the case appears to fall within the jurisdiction
of the Court, it shall authorize the commencement of the investigation,
without prejudice to subsequent determinations by the Court with regard
to the jurisdiction and admissibility of a case.
5. The
refusal of the Pre-Trial Chamber to authorize the investigation shall not
preclude the presentation of a subsequent request by the Prosecutor based
on new facts or evidence regarding the same situation.
6. If,
after the preliminary examination referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2, the
Prosecutor concludes that the information provided does not constitute
a reasonable basis for an investigation, he or she shall inform those who
provided the information. This shall not preclude the Prosecutor from considering
further information submitted to him or her regarding the same situation
in the light of new facts or evidence.
Article 16
Deferral of investigation or prosecution
No investigation or prosecution may be commenced or proceeded with under
this Statute for a period of 12 months after the Security Council, in a
resolution adopted under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations,
has requested the Court to that effect; that request may be renewed by
the Council under the same conditions.
Article 17
Issues of admissibility
1. Having
regard to paragraph 10 of the Preamble and article 1, the Court shall determine
that a case is inadmissible where:
(a) The case is being investigated or prosecuted
by a State which has jurisdiction over it, unless the State is unwilling
or unable genuinely to carry out the investigation or prosecution;
(b) The case has been investigated by a State which
has jurisdiction over it and the State has decided not to prosecute the
person concerned, unless the decision resulted from the unwillingness or
inability of the State genuinely to prosecute;
(c) The person concerned has already been tried
for conduct which is the subject of the complaint, and a trial by the Court
is not permitted under article 20, paragraph 3;
(d) The case is not of sufficient gravity to justify
further action by the Court.
2. In
order to determine unwillingness in a particular case, the Court shall
consider, having regard to the principles of due process recognized by
international law, whether one or more of the following exist, as applicable:
(a) The proceedings were or are being undertaken
or the national decision was made for the purpose of shielding the person
concerned from criminal responsibility for crimes within the jurisdiction
of the Court referred to in article 5;
(b) There has been an unjustified delay in the
proceedings which in the circumstances is inconsistent with an intent to
bring the person concerned to justice;
(c) The proceedings were not or are not being conducted
independently or impartially, and they were or are being conducted in a
manner which, in the circumstances, is inconsistent with an intent to bring
the person concerned to justice.
3. In
order to determine inability in a particular case, the Court shall consider
whether, due to a total or substantial collapse or unavailability of its
national judicial system, the State is unable to obtain the accused or
the necessary evidence and testimony or otherwise unable to carry out its
proceedings.
Article 18
Preliminary rulings regarding admissibility
1. When
a situation has been referred to the Court pursuant to article 13 (a) and
the Prosecutor has determined that there would be a reasonable basis to
commence an investigation, or the Prosecutor initiates an investigation
pursuant to articles 13 (c) and 15, the Prosecutor shall notify all States
Parties and those States which, taking into account the information available,
would normally exercise jurisdiction over the crimes concerned. The Prosecutor
may notify such States on a confidential basis and, where the Prosecutor
believes it necessary to protect persons, prevent destruction of evidence
or prevent the absconding of persons, may limit the scope of the information
provided to States.
2. Within
one month of receipt of that notification, a State may inform the Court
that it is investigating or has investigated its nationals or others within
its jurisdiction with respect to criminal acts which may constitute crimes
referred to in article 5 and which relate to the information provided in
the notification to States. At the request of that State, the Prosecutor
shall defer to the State's investigation of those persons unless the Pre-Trial
Chamber, on the application of the Prosecutor, decides to authorize the
investigation.
3. The
Prosecutor's deferral to a State's investigation shall be open to review
by the Prosecutor six months after the date of deferral or at any time
when there has been a significant change of circumstances based on the
State's unwillingness or inability genuinely to carry out the investigation.
4. The
State concerned or the Prosecutor may appeal to the Appeals Chamber against
a ruling of the Pre-Trial Chamber, in accordance with article 82. The appeal
may be heard on an expedited basis.
5. When
the Prosecutor has deferred an investigation in accordance with paragraph
2, the Prosecutor may request that the State concerned periodically inform
the Prosecutor of the progress of its investigations and any subsequent
prosecutions. States Parties shall respond to such requests without undue
delay.
6. Pending
a ruling by the Pre-Trial Chamber, or at any time when the Prosecutor has
deferred an investigation under this article, the Prosecutor may, on an
exceptional basis, seek authority from the Pre-Trial Chamber to pursue
necessary investigative steps for the purpose of preserving evidence where
there is a unique opportunity to obtain important evidence or there is
a significant risk that such evidence may not be subsequently available.
7. A State
which has challenged a ruling of the Pre-Trial Chamber under this article
may challenge the admissibility of a case under article 19 on the grounds
of additional significant facts or significant change of circumstances.
Article 19
Challenges to the jurisdiction of the Court
or the admissibility of a case
1. The
Court shall satisfy itself that it has jurisdiction in any case brought
before it. The Court may, on its own motion, determine the admissibility
of a case in accordance with article 17.
2. Challenges
to the admissibility of a case on the grounds referred to in article 17
or challenges to the jurisdiction of the Court may be made by:
(a) An accused or a person for whom a warrant of arrest
or a summons to appear has been issued under article 58;
(b) A State which has jurisdiction over a case,
on the ground that it is investigating or prosecuting the case or has investigated
or prosecuted; or
(c) A State from which acceptance of jurisdiction
is required under article 12.
3. The
Prosecutor may seek a ruling from the Court regarding a question of jurisdiction
or admissibility. In proceedings with respect to jurisdiction or admissibility,
those who have referred the situation under article 13, as well as victims,
may also submit observations to the Court.
4. The
admissibility of a case or the jurisdiction of the Court may be challenged
only once by any person or State referred to in paragraph 2. The challenge
shall take place prior to or at the commencement of the trial. In exceptional
circumstances, the Court may grant leave for a challenge to be brought
more than once or at a time later than the commencement of the trial. Challenges
to the admissibility of a case, at the commencement of a trial, or subsequently
with the leave of the Court, may be based only on article 17, paragraph
1 (c).
5. A State
referred to in paragraph 2 (b) and (c) shall make a challenge at the earliest
opportunity.
6. Prior
to the confirmation of the charges, challenges to the admissibility of
a case or challenges to the jurisdiction of the Court shall be referred
to the Pre-Trial Chamber. After confirmation of the charges, they shall
be referred to the Trial Chamber. Decisions with respect to jurisdiction
or admissibility may be appealed to the Appeals Chamber in accordance with
article 82.
7. If
a challenge is made by a State referred to in paragraph 2 (b) or (c), the
Prosecutor shall suspend the investigation until such time as the Court
makes a determination in accordance with article 17.
8. Pending
a ruling by the Court, the Prosecutor may seek authority from the Court:
(a) To pursue necessary investigative steps of
the kind referred to in article 18, paragraph 6;
(b) To take a statement or testimony from a witness
or complete the collection and examination of evidence which had begun
prior to the making of the challenge; and
(c) In cooperation with the relevant States, to
prevent the absconding of persons in respect of whom the Prosecutor has
already requested a warrant of arrest under article 58.
9. The
making of a challenge shall not affect the validity of any act performed
by the Prosecutor or any order or warrant issued by the Court prior to
the making of the challenge.
10. If
the Court has decided that a case is inadmissible under article 17, the
Prosecutor may submit a request for a review of the decision when he or
she is fully satisfied that new facts have arisen which negate the basis
on which the case had previously been found inadmissible under article
17.
11. If
the Prosecutor, having regard to the matters referred to in article 17,
defers an investigation, the Prosecutor may request that the relevant State
make available to the Prosecutor information on the proceedings. That information
shall, at the request of the State concerned, be confidential. If the Prosecutor
thereafter decides to proceed with an investigation, he or she shall notify
the State to which deferral of the proceedings has taken place.
Article 20
Ne bis in idem
1. Except
as provided in this Statute, no person shall be tried before the Court
with respect to conduct which formed the basis of crimes for which the
person has been convicted or acquitted by the Court.
2. No
person shall be tried by another court for a crime referred to in article
5 for which that person has already been convicted or acquitted by the
Court.
3. No
person who has been tried by another court for conduct also proscribed
under article 6, 7 or 8 shall be tried by the Court with respect to the
same conduct unless the proceedings in the other court:
(a) Were for the purpose of shielding the person
concerned from criminal responsibility for crimes within the jurisdiction
of the Court; or
(b) Otherwise were not conducted independently
or impartially in accordance with the norms of due process recognized by
international law and were conducted in a manner which, in the circumstances,
was inconsistent with an intent to bring the person concerned to justice.
Article 21
Applicable law
1. The
Court shall apply:
(a) In the first place, this Statute, Elements
of Crimes and its Rules of Procedure and Evidence;
(b) In the second place, where appropriate, applicable
treaties and the principles and rules of international law, including the
established principles of the international law of armed conflict;
(c) Failing that, general principles of law derived
by the Court from national laws of legal systems of the world including,
as appropriate, the national laws of States that would normally exercise
jurisdiction over the crime, provided that those principles are not inconsistent
with this Statute and with international law and internationally recognized
norms and standards.
2. The
Court may apply principles and rules of law as interpreted in its previous
decisions.
3. The
application and interpretation of law pursuant to this article must be
consistent with internationally recognized human rights, and be without
any adverse distinction founded on grounds such as gender as defined in
article 7, paragraph 3, age, race, colour, language, religion or belief,
political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, wealth,
birth or other status.
PART 3. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF CRIMINAL LAW
Article 22
Nullum crimen sine lege
1. A person
shall not be criminally responsible under this Statute unless the conduct
in question constitutes, at the time it takes place, a crime within the
jurisdiction of the Court.
2. The
definition of a crime shall be strictly construed and shall not be extended
by analogy. In case of ambiguity, the definition shall be interpreted in
favour of the person being investigated, prosecuted or convicted.
3. This
article shall not affect the characterization of any conduct as criminal
under international law independently of this Statute.
Article 23
Nulla poena sine lege
A person convicted by the Court may be punished only in accordance with
this Statute.
Article 24
Non-retroactivity ratione personae
1. No
person shall be criminally responsible under this Statute for conduct prior
to the entry into force of the Statute.
2. In
the event of a change in the law applicable to a given case prior to a
final judgement, the law more favourable to the person being investigated,
prosecuted or convicted shall apply.
Article 25
Individual criminal responsibility
1. The
Court shall have jurisdiction over natural persons pursuant to this Statute.
2. A person
who commits a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court shall be individually
responsible and liable for punishment in accordance with this Statute.
3. In
accordance with this Statute, a person shall be criminally responsible
and liable for punishment for a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court
if that person:
(a)
Commits such a crime, whether as an individual, jointly with another or
through another person, regardless of whether that other person is criminally
responsible;
(b)
Orders, solicits or induces the commission of such a crime which in fact
occurs or is attempted;
(c)
For the purpose of facilitating the commission of such a crime, aids, abets
or otherwise assists in its commission or its attempted commission, including
providing the means for its commission;
(d)
In any other way contributes to the commission or attempted commission
of such a crime by a group of persons acting with a common purpose. Such
contribution shall be intentional and shall either:
(i)
Be made with the aim of furthering the criminal activity or criminal purpose
of the group, where such activity or purpose involves the commission of
a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court; or
(ii)
Be made in the knowledge of the intention of the group to commit the crime;
(e)
In respect of the crime of genocide, directly and publicly incites others
to commit genocide;
(f)
Attempts to commit such a crime by taking action that commences its execution
by means of a substantial step, but the crime does not occur because of
circumstances independent of the person's intentions. However, a person
who abandons the effort to commit the crime or otherwise prevents the completion
of the crime shall not be liable for punishment under this Statute for
the attempt to commit that crime if that person completely and voluntarily
gave up the criminal purpose.
4. No
provision in this Statute relating to individual criminal responsibility
shall affect the responsibility of States under international law.
Article 26
Exclusion of jurisdiction over persons under eighteen
The Court shall have no jurisdiction over any person who was under the
age of 18 at the time of the alleged commission of a crime.
Article 27
Irrelevance of official capacity
1. This
Statute shall apply equally to all persons without any distinction based
on official capacity. In particular, official capacity as a Head of State
or Government, a member of a Government or parliament, an elected representative
or a government official shall in no case exempt a person from criminal
responsibility under this Statute, nor shall it, in and of itself, constitute
a ground for reduction of sentence.
2. Immunities
or special procedural rules which may attach to the official capacity of
a person, whether under national or international law, shall not bar the
Court from exercising its jurisdiction over such a person.
Article 28
Responsibility of commanders and other superiors
In addition to other grounds of criminal responsibility under this Statute
for crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court:
(a) A military commander or person effectively
acting as a military commander shall be criminally responsible for crimes
within the jurisdiction of the Court committed by forces under his or her
effective command and control, or effective authority and control as the
case may be, as a result of his or her failure to exercise control properly
over such forces, where:
(i) That military commander or person either knew
or, owing to the circumstances at the time, should have known that the
forces were committing or about to commit such crimes; and
(ii) That military commander or person failed to
take all necessary and reasonable measures within his or her power to prevent
or repress their commission or to submit the matter to the competent authorities
for investigation and prosecution.
(b) With respect to superior and subordinate relationships
not described in paragraph (a), a superior shall be criminally responsible
for crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court committed by subordinates
under his or her effective authority and control, as a result of his or
her failure to exercise control properly over such subordinates, where:
(i) The superior either knew, or consciously disregarded
information which clearly indicated, that the subordinates were committing
or about to commit such crimes;
(ii) The crimes concerned activities that were
within the effective responsibility and control of the superior; and
(iii) The superior failed to take all necessary
and reasonable measures within his or her power to prevent or repress their
commission or to submit the matter to the competent authorities for investigation
and prosecution.
Article 29
Non-applicability of statute of limitations
The crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court shall not be subject to
any statute of limitations.
Article 30
Mental element
1. Unless
otherwise provided, a person shall be criminally responsible and liable
for punishment for a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court only if
the material elements are committed with intent and knowledge.
2. For
the purposes of this article, a person has intent where:
(a) In relation to conduct, that person means to
engage in the conduct;
(b) In relation to a consequence, that person means
to cause that consequence or is aware that it will occur in the ordinary
course of events.
3. For
the purposes of this article, "knowledge" means awareness that a circumstance
exists or a consequence will occur in the ordinary course of events. "Know"
and "knowingly" shall be construed accordingly.
Article 31
Grounds for excluding criminal responsibility
1. In
addition to other grounds for excluding criminal responsibility provided
for in this Statute, a person shall not be criminally responsible if, at
the time of that person's conduct:
(a) The person suffers from a mental disease or
defect that destroys that person's capacity to appreciate the unlawfulness
or nature of his or her conduct, or capacity to control his or her conduct
to conform to the requirements of law;
(b) The person is in a state of intoxication that
destroys that person's capacity to appreciate the unlawfulness or nature
of his or her conduct, or capacity to control his or her conduct to conform
to the requirements of law, unless the person has become voluntarily intoxicated
under such circumstances that the person knew, or disregarded the risk,
that, as a result of the intoxication, he or she was likely to engage in
conduct constituting a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court;
(c) The person acts reasonably to defend himself
or herself or another person or, in the case of war crimes, property which
is essential for the survival of the person or another person or property
which is essential for accomplishing a military mission, against an imminent
and unlawful use of force in a manner proportionate to the degree of danger
to the person or the other person or property protected. The fact that
the person was involved in a defensive operation conducted by forces shall
not in itself constitute a ground for excluding criminal responsibility
under this subparagraph;
(d) The conduct which is alleged to constitute
a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court has been caused by duress
resulting from a threat of imminent death or of continuing or imminent
serious bodily harm against that person or another person, and the person
acts necessarily and reasonably to avoid this threat, provided that the
person does not intend to cause a greater harm than the one sought to be
avoided. Such a threat may either be:
(i) Made by other persons; or
(ii) Constituted by other circumstances beyond
that person's control.
2. The
Court shall determine the applicability of the grounds for excluding criminal
responsibility provided for in this Statute to the case before it.
3. At
trial, the Court may consider a ground for excluding criminal responsibility
other than those referred to in paragraph 1 where such a ground is derived
from applicable law as set forth in article 21. The procedures relating
to the consideration of such a ground shall be provided for in the Rules
of Procedure and Evidence.
Article 32
Mistake of fact or mistake of law
1. A mistake
of fact shall be a ground for excluding criminal responsibility only if
it negates the mental element required by the crime.
2. A mistake
of law as to whether a particular type of conduct is a crime within the
jurisdiction of the Court shall not be a ground for excluding criminal
responsibility. A mistake of law may, however, be a ground for excluding
criminal responsibility if it negates the mental element required by such
a crime, or as provided for in article 33.
Article 33
Superior orders and prescription of law
1. The
fact that a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court has been committed
by a person pursuant to an order of a Government or of a superior, whether
military or civilian, shall not relieve that person of criminal responsibility
unless:
(a) The person was under a legal obligation to
obey orders of the Government or the superior in question;
(b) The person did not know that the order was
unlawful; and
(c) The order was not manifestly unlawful.
2. For
the purposes of this article, orders to commit genocide or crimes against
humanity are manifestly unlawful.
PART 4. COMPOSITION AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE COURT
Article 34
Organs of the Court
The Court shall be composed of the following organs:
(a) The Presidency;
(b) An Appeals Division, a Trial Division and a
Pre-Trial Division;
(c) The Office of the Prosecutor;
(d) The Registry.
Article 35
Service of judges
1. All
judges shall be elected as full-time members of the Court and shall be
available to serve on that basis from the commencement of their terms of
office.
2. The
judges composing the Presidency shall serve on a full-time basis as soon
as they are elected.
3. The
Presidency may, on the basis of the workload of the Court and in consultation
with its members, decide from time to time to what extent the remaining
judges shall be required to serve on a full-time basis. Any such arrangement
shall be without prejudice to the provisions of article 40.
4. The
financial arrangements for judges not required to serve on a full-time
basis shall be made in accordance with article 49.
Article 36
Qualifications, nomination and election of judges
1. Subject
to the provisions of paragraph 2, there shall be 18 judges of the Court.
2. (a)
The Presidency, acting on behalf of the Court, may propose an increase
in the number of judges specified in paragraph 1, indicating the reasons
why this is considered necessary and appropriate. The Registrar shall promptly
circulate any such proposal to all States Parties.
(b) Any such proposal shall then be considered
at a meeting of the Assembly of States Parties to be convened in accordance
with article 112. The proposal shall be considered adopted if approved
at the meeting by a vote of two thirds of the members of the Assembly of
States Parties and shall enter into force at such time as decided by the
Assembly of States Parties.
(c) (i) Once a proposal
for an increase in the number of judges has been adopted under subparagraph
(b), the election of the additional judges shall take place at the next
session of the Assembly of States Parties in accordance with paragraphs
3 to 8, and article 37, paragraph 2;
(ii) Once a proposal for an increase in the number
of judges has been adopted and brought into effect under subparagraphs
(b) and (c) (i), it shall be open to the Presidency at any time thereafter,
if the workload of the Court justifies it, to propose a reduction in the
number of judges, provided that the number of judges shall not be reduced
below that specified in paragraph 1. The proposal shall be dealt with in
accordance with the procedure laid down in subparagraphs (a) and (b). In
the event that the proposal is adopted, the number of judges shall be progressively
decreased as the terms of office of serving judges expire, until the necessary
number has been reached.
3. (a)
The judges shall be chosen from among persons of high moral character,
impartiality and integrity who possess the qualifications required in their
respective States for appointment to the highest judicial offices.
(b) Every candidate for election to the Court shall:
(i) Have established competence in criminal law
and procedure, and the necessary relevant experience, whether as judge,
prosecutor, advocate or in other similar capacity, in criminal proceedings;
or
(ii) Have established competence in relevant areas
of international law such as international humanitarian law and the law
of human rights, and extensive experience in a professional legal capacity
which is of relevance to the judicial work of the Court;
(c) Every candidate for election to the Court shall
have an excellent knowledge of and be fluent in at least one of the working
languages of the Court.
4. (a)
Nominations of candidates for election to the Court may be made by any
State Party to this Statute, and shall be made either:
(i) By the procedure for the nomination of candidates
for appointment to the highest judicial offices in the State in question;
or
(ii) By the procedure provided for the nomination
of candidates for the International Court of Justice in the Statute of
that Court.
Nominations shall be accompanied by a statement in the necessary detail
specifying how the candidate fulfils the requirements of paragraph 3.
(b) Each State Party may put forward one candidate
for any given election who need not necessarily be a national of that State
Party but shall in any case be a national of a State Party.
(c) The Assembly of States Parties may decide to
establish, if appropriate, an Advisory Committee on nominations. In that
event, the Committee's composition and mandate shall be established by
the Assembly of States Parties.
5. For
the purposes of the election, there shall be two lists of candidates:
List A containing
the names of candidates with the qualifications specified in paragraph
3 (b) (i); and
List B containing
the names of candidates with the qualifications specified in paragraph
3 (b) (ii).
A candidate
with sufficient qualifications for both lists may choose on which list
to appear. At the first election to the Court, at least nine judges shall
be elected from list A and at least five judges from list B. Subsequent
elections shall be so organized as to maintain the equivalent proportion
on the Court of judges qualified on the two lists.
6. (a)
The judges shall be elected by secret ballot at a meeting of the Assembly
of States Parties convened for that purpose under article 112. Subject
to paragraph 7, the persons elected to the Court shall be the 18 candidates
who obtain the highest number of votes and a two-thirds majority of the
States Parties present and voting.
(b) In the event that a sufficient number of judges
is not elected on the first ballot, successive ballots shall be held in
accordance with the procedures laid down in subparagraph (a) until the
remaining places have been filled.
7. No
two judges may be nationals of the same State. A person who, for the purposes
of membership of the Court, could be regarded as a national of more than
one State shall be deemed to be a national of the State in which that person
ordinarily exercises civil and political rights.
8. (a)
The States Parties shall, in the selection of judges, take into account
the need, within the membership of the Court, for:
(i) The representation of the principal legal systems
of the world;
(ii) Equitable geographical representation; and
(iii) A fair representation of female and male
judges.
(b) States Parties shall also take into account
the need to include judges with legal expertise on specific issues, including,
but not limited to, violence against women or children.
9. (a)
Subject to subparagraph (b), judges shall hold office for a term of nine
years and, subject to subparagraph (c) and to article 37, paragraph 2,
shall not be eligible for re-election.
(b) At the first election, one third of the judges
elected shall be selected by lot to serve for a term of three years; one
third of the judges elected shall be selected by lot to serve for a term
of six years; and the remainder shall serve for a term of nine years.
(c) A judge who is selected to serve for a term
of three years under subparagraph (b) shall be eligible for re-election
for a full term.
10. Notwithstanding
paragraph 9, a judge assigned to a Trial or Appeals Chamber in accordance
with article 39 shall continue in office to complete any trial or appeal
the hearing of which has already commenced before that Chamber.
Article 37
Judicial vacancies
1. In
the event of a vacancy, an election shall be held in accordance with article
36 to fill the vacancy.
2. A judge
elected to fill a vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the predecessor's
term and, if that period is three years or less, shall be eligible for
re-election for a full term under article 36.
Article 38
The Presidency
1. The
President and the First and Second Vice-Presidents shall be elected by
an absolute majority of the judges. They shall each serve for a term of
three years or until the end of their respective terms of office as judges,
whichever expires earlier. They shall be eligible for re-election once.
2. The
First Vice-President shall act in place of the President in the event that
the President is unavailable or disqualified. The Second Vice-President
shall act in place of the President in the event that both the President
and the First Vice-President are unavailable or disqualified.
3. The
President, together with the First and Second Vice-Presidents, shall constitute
the Presidency, which shall be responsible for:
(a) The proper administration of the Court, with
the exception of the Office of the Prosecutor; and
(b) The other functions conferred upon it in accordance
with this Statute.
4. In
discharging its responsibility under paragraph 3 (a), the Presidency shall
coordinate with and seek the concurrence of the Prosecutor on all matters
of mutual concern.
Article 39
Chambers
1. As
soon as possible after the election of the judges, the Court shall organize
itself into the divisions specified in article 34, paragraph (b). The Appeals
Division shall be composed of the President and four other judges, the
Trial Division of not less than six judges and the Pre-Trial Division of
not less than six judges. The assignment of judges to divisions shall be
based on the nature of the functions to be performed by each division and
the qualifications and experience of the judges elected to the Court, in
such a way that each division shall contain an appropriate combination
of expertise in criminal law and procedure and in international law. The
Trial and Pre-Trial Divisions shall be composed predominantly of judges
with criminal trial experience.
2. (a)
The judicial functions of the Court shall be carried out in each division
by Chambers.
(b) (i) The Appeals Chamber
shall be composed of all the judges of the Appeals Division;
(ii) The functions of the Trial Chamber shall be
carried out by three judges of the Trial Division;
(iii) The functions of the Pre-Trial Chamber shall
be carried out either by three judges of the Pre-Trial Division or by a
single judge of that division in accordance with this Statute and the Rules
of Procedure and Evidence;
(c) Nothing in this paragraph shall preclude the
simultaneous constitution of more than one Trial Chamber or Pre-Trial Chamber
when the efficient management of the Court's workload so requires.
3. (a)
Judges assigned to the Trial and Pre-Trial Divisions shall serve in those
divisions for a period of three years, and thereafter until the completion
of any case the hearing of which has already commenced in the division
concerned.
(b) Judges assigned to the Appeals Division shall
serve in that division for their entire term of office.
4. Judges
assigned to the Appeals Division shall serve only in that division. Nothing
in this article shall, however, preclude the temporary attachment of judges
from the Trial Division to the Pre-Trial Division or vice versa, if the
Presidency considers that the efficient management of the Court's workload
so requires, provided that under no circumstances shall a judge who has
participated in the pre-trial phase of a case be eligible to sit on the
Trial Chamber hearing that case.
Article 40
Independence of the judges
1. The
judges shall be independent in the performance of their functions.
2. Judges
shall not engage in any activity which is likely to interfere with their
judicial functions or to affect confidence in their independence.
3. Judges
required to serve on a full-time basis at the seat of the Court shall not
engage in any other occupation of a professional nature.
4. Any
question regarding the application of paragraphs 2 and 3 shall be decided
by an absolute majority of the judges. Where any such question concerns
an individual judge, that judge shall not take part in the decision.
Article 41
Excusing and disqualification of judges
1. The
Presidency may, at the request of a judge, excuse that judge from the exercise
of a function under this Statute, in accordance with the Rules of Procedure
and Evidence.
2. (a)
A judge shall not participate in any case in which his or her impartiality
might reasonably be doubted on any ground. A judge shall be disqualified
from a case in accordance with this paragraph if, inter alia, that
judge has previously been involved in any capacity in that case before
the Court or in a related criminal case at the national level involving
the person being investigated or prosecuted. A judge shall also be disqualified
on such other grounds as may be provided for in the Rules of Procedure
and Evidence.
(b)
The Prosecutor or the person being investigated or prosecuted may request
the disqualification of a judge under this paragraph.
(c)
Any question as to the disqualification of a judge shall be decided by
an absolute majority of the judges. The challenged judge shall be entitled
to present his or her comments on the matter, but shall not take part in
the decision.
Article 42
The Office of the Prosecutor
1. The
Office of the Prosecutor shall act independently as a separate organ of
the Court. It shall be responsible for receiving referrals and any substantiated
information on crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court, for examining
them and for conducting investigations and prosecutions before the Court.
A member of the Office shall not seek or act on instructions from any external
source.
2. The
Office shall be headed by the Prosecutor. The Prosecutor shall have full
authority over the management and administration of the Office, including
the staff, facilities and other resources thereof. The Prosecutor shall
be assisted by one or more Deputy Prosecutors, who shall be entitled to
carry out any of the acts required of the Prosecutor under this Statute.
The Prosecutor and the Deputy Prosecutors shall be of different nationalities.
They shall serve on a full-time basis.
3. The
Prosecutor and the Deputy Prosecutors shall be persons of high moral character,
be highly competent in and have extensive practical experience in the prosecution
or trial of criminal cases. They shall have an excellent knowledge of and
be fluent in at least one of the working languages of the Court.
4. The
Prosecutor shall be elected by secret ballot by an absolute majority of
the members of the Assembly of States Parties. The Deputy Prosecutors shall
be elected in the same way from a list of candidates provided by the Prosecutor.
The Prosecutor shall nominate three candidates for each position of Deputy
Prosecutor to be filled. Unless a shorter term is decided upon at the time
of their election, the Prosecutor and the Deputy Prosecutors shall hold
office for a term of nine years and shall not be eligible for re-election.
5. Neither
the Prosecutor nor a Deputy Prosecutor shall engage in any activity which
is likely to interfere with his or her prosecutorial functions or to affect
confidence in his or her independence. They shall not engage in any other
occupation of a professional nature.
6. The
Presidency may excuse the Prosecutor or a Deputy Prosecutor, at his or
her request, from acting in a particular case.
7. Neither
the Prosecutor nor a Deputy Prosecutor shall participate in any matter
in which their impartiality might reasonably be doubted on any ground.
They shall be disqualified from a case in accordance with this paragraph
if,
inter alia, they have previously been involved in any capacity
in that case before the Court or in a related criminal case at the national
level involving the person being investigated or prosecuted.
8. Any
question as to the disqualification of the Prosecutor or a Deputy Prosecutor
shall be decided by the Appeals Chamber.
(a) The person being investigated or prosecuted
may at any time request the disqualification of the Prosecutor or a Deputy
Prosecutor on the grounds set out in this article;
(b) The Prosecutor or the Deputy Prosecutor, as
appropriate, shall be entitled to present his or her comments on the matter;
9. The
Prosecutor shall appoint advisers with legal expertise on specific issues,
including, but not limited to, sexual and gender violence and violence
against children.
Article 43
The Registry
1. The
Registry shall be responsible for the non-judicial aspects of the administration
and servicing of the Court, without prejudice to the functions and powers
of the Prosecutor in accordance with article 42.
2. The
Registry shall be headed by the Registrar, who shall be the principal administrative
officer of the Court. The Registrar shall exercise his or her functions
under the authority of the President of the Court.
3. The
Registrar and the Deputy Registrar shall be persons of high moral character,
be highly competent and have an excellent knowledge of and be fluent in
at least one of the working languages of the Court.
4. The
judges shall elect the Registrar by an absolute majority by secret ballot,
taking into account any recommendation by the Assembly of States Parties.
If the need arises and upon the recommendation of the Registrar, the judges
shall elect, in the same manner, a Deputy Registrar.
5. The
Registrar shall hold office for a term of five years, shall be eligible
for re-election once and shall serve on a full-time basis. The Deputy Registrar
shall hold office for a term of five years or such shorter term as may
be decided upon by an absolute majority of the judges, and may be elected
on the basis that the Deputy Registrar shall be called upon to serve as
required.
6. The
Registrar shall set up a Victims and Witnesses Unit within the Registry.
This Unit shall provide, in consultation with the Office of the Prosecutor,
protective measures and security arrangements, counselling and other appropriate
assistance for witnesses, victims who appear before the Court, and others
who are at risk on account of testimony given by such witnesses. The Unit
shall include staff with expertise in trauma, including trauma related
to crimes of sexual violence.
Article 44
Staff
1. The
Prosecutor and the Registrar shall appoint such qualified staff as may
be required to their respective offices. In the case of the Prosecutor,
this shall include the appointment of investigators.
2. In
the employment of staff, the Prosecutor and the Registrar shall ensure
the highest standards of efficiency, competency and integrity, and shall
have regard, mutatis mutandis, to the criteria set forth in article
36, paragraph 8.
3. The
Registrar, with the agreement of the Presidency and the Prosecutor, shall
propose Staff Regulations which include the terms and conditions upon which
the staff of the Court shall be appointed, remunerated and dismissed. The
Staff Regulations shall be approved by the Assembly of States Parties.
4. The
Court may, in exceptional circumstances, employ the expertise of gratis
personnel offered by States Parties, intergovernmental organizations or
non-governmental organizations to assist with the work of any of the organs
of the Court. The Prosecutor may accept any such offer on behalf of the
Office of the Prosecutor. Such gratis personnel shall be employed in accordance
with guidelines to be established by the Assembly of States Parties.
Article 45
Solemn undertaking
Before taking up their respective duties under this Statute, the judges,
the Prosecutor, the Deputy Prosecutors, the Registrar and the Deputy Registrar
shall each make a solemn undertaking in open court to exercise his or her
respective functions impartially and conscientiously.
Article 46
Removal from office
1. A judge,
the Prosecutor, a Deputy Prosecutor, the Registrar or the Deputy Registrar
shall be removed from office if a decision to this effect is made in accordance
with paragraph 2, in cases where that person:
(a) Is found to have committed serious misconduct
or a serious breach of his or her duties under this Statute, as provided
for in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence; or
(b) Is unable to exercise the functions required
by this Statute.
2. A decision
as to the removal from office of a judge, the Prosecutor or a Deputy Prosecutor
under paragraph 1 shall be made by the Assembly of States Parties, by secret
ballot:
( a) In the case of a judge, by a two-thirds majority
of the States Parties upon a recommendation adopted by a two-thirds majority
of the other judges;
(b) In the case of the Prosecutor, by an absolute
majority of the States Parties;
(c) In the case of a Deputy Prosecutor, by an absolute
majority of the States Parties upon the recommendation of the Prosecutor.
3. A decision
as to the removal from office of the Registrar or Deputy Registrar shall
be made by an absolute majority of the judges.
4. A judge,
Prosecutor, Deputy Prosecutor, Registrar or Deputy Registrar whose conduct
or ability to exercise the functions of the office as required by this
Statute is challenged under this article shall have full opportunity to
present and receive evidence and to make submissions in accordance with
the Rules of Procedure and Evidence. The person in question shall not otherwise
participate in the consideration of the matter.
Article 47
Disciplinary measures
A judge, Prosecutor, Deputy Prosecutor, Registrar or Deputy Registrar who
has committed misconduct of a less serious nature than that set out in
article 46, paragraph 1, shall be subject to disciplinary measures, in
accordance with the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
Article 48
Privileges and immunities
1. The
Court shall enjoy in the territory of each State Party such privileges
and immunities as are necessary for the fulfilment of its purposes.
2. The
judges, the Prosecutor, the Deputy Prosecutors and the Registrar shall,
when engaged on or with respect to the business of the Court, enjoy the
same privileges and immunities as are accorded to heads of diplomatic missions
and shall, after the expiry of their terms of office, continue to be accorded
immunity from legal process of every kind in respect of words spoken or
written and acts performed by them in their official capacity.
3. The
Deputy Registrar, the staff of the Office of the Prosecutor and the staff
of the Registry shall enjoy the privileges and immunities and facilities
necessary for the performance of their functions, in accordance with the
agreement on the privileges and immunities of the Court.
4. Counsel,
experts, witnesses or any other person required to be present at the seat
of the Court shall be accorded such treatment as is necessary for the proper
functioning of the Court, in accordance with the agreement on the privileges
and immunities of the Court.
5. The
privileges and immunities of:
(a) A judge or the Prosecutor may be waived by
an absolute majority of the judges;
(b) The Registrar may be waived by the Presidency;
(c) The Deputy Prosecutors
and staff of the Office of the Prosecutor may be waived by the Prosecutor;
(d) The Deputy Registrar and staff of the Registry
may be waived by the Registrar.
Article 49
Salaries, allowances and expenses
The judges, the Prosecutor, the Deputy Prosecutors, the Registrar and the
Deputy Registrar shall receive such salaries, allowances and expenses as
may be decided upon by the Assembly of States Parties. These salaries and
allowances shall not be reduced during their terms of office.
Article 50
Official and working languages
1. The
official languages of the Court shall be Arabic, Chinese, English, French,
Russian and Spanish. The judgements of the Court, as well as other decisions
resolving fundamental issues before the Court, shall be published in the
official languages. The Presidency shall, in accordance with the criteria
established by the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, determine which decisions
may be considered as resolving fundamental issues for the purposes of this
paragraph.
2. The
working languages of the Court shall be English and French. The Rules of
Procedure and Evidence shall determine the cases in which other official
languages may be used as working languages.
3. At
the request of any party to a proceeding or a State allowed to intervene
in a proceeding, the Court shall authorize a language other than English
or French to be used by such a party or State, provided that the Court
considers such authorization to be adequately justified.
Article 51
Rules of Procedure and Evidence
1. The
Rules of Procedure and Evidence shall enter into force upon adoption by
a two-thirds majority of the members of the Assembly of States Parties.
2. Amendments
to the Rules of Procedure and Evidence may be proposed by:
(a) Any State Party;
(b) The judges acting by an absolute majority;
or
(c) The Prosecutor.
Such amendments shall enter into force upon adoption by a two-thirds majority
of the members of the Assembly of States Parties.
3. After
the adoption of the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, in urgent cases where
the Rules do not provide for a specific situation before the Court, the
judges may, by a two-thirds majority, draw up provisional Rules to be applied
until adopted, amended or rejected at the next ordinary or special session
of the Assembly of States Parties.
4. The
Rules of Procedure and Evidence, amendments thereto and any provisional
Rule shall be consistent with this Statute. Amendments to the Rules of
Procedure and Evidence as well as provisional Rules shall not be applied
retroactively to the detriment of the person who is being investigated
or prosecuted or who has been convicted.
5. In
the event of conflict between the Statute and the Rules of Procedure and
Evidence, the Statute shall prevail.
Article 52
Regulations of the Court
1. The
judges shall, in accordance with this Statute and the Rules of Procedure
and Evidence, adopt, by an absolute majority, the Regulations of the Court
necessary for its routine functioning.
2. The
Prosecutor and the Registrar shall be consulted in the elaboration of the
Regulations and any amendments thereto.
3. The
Regulations and any amendments thereto shall take effect upon adoption
unless otherwise decided by the judges. Immediately upon adoption, they
shall be circulated to States Parties for comments. If within six months
there are no objections from a majority of States Parties, they shall remain
in force.
PART 5. INVESTIGATION AND PROSECUTION
Article 53
Initiation of an investigation
1. The
Prosecutor shall, having evaluated the information made available to him
or her, initiate an investigation unless he or she determines that there
is no reasonable basis to proceed under this Statute. In deciding whether
to initiate an investigation, the Prosecutor shall consider whether:
(a) The information available to the Prosecutor
provides a reasonable basis to believe that a crime within the jurisdiction
of the Court has been or is being committed;
(b) The case is or would be admissible under article
17; and
(c) Taking into account the gravity of the crime
and the interests of victims, there are nonetheless substantial reasons
to believe that an investigation would not serve the interests of justice.
If the Prosecutor determines that there is no reasonable basis to proceed
and his or her determination is based solely on subparagraph (c) above,
he or she shall inform the Pre-Trial Chamber.
2. If,
upon investigation, the Prosecutor concludes that there is not a sufficient
basis for a prosecution because:
(a) There is not a sufficient legal or factual
basis to seek a warrant or summons under article 58;
(b) The case is inadmissible under article 17;
or
(c) A prosecution is not in the interests of justice,
taking into account all the circumstances, including the gravity of the
crime, the interests of victims and the age or infirmity of the alleged
perpetrator, and his or her role in the alleged crime;
the Prosecutor shall inform the Pre-Trial Chamber and
the State making a referral under article 14 or the Security Council in
a case under article 13, paragraph (b), of his or her conclusion and the
reasons for the conclusion.
3. (a)
At the request of the State making a referral under article 14 or the Security
Council under article 13, paragraph (b), the Pre-Trial Chamber may review
a decision of the Prosecutor under paragraph 1 or 2 not to proceed and
may request the Prosecutor to reconsider that decision.
(b) In addition, the Pre-Trial Chamber may, on
its own initiative, review a decision of the Prosecutor not to proceed
if it is based solely on paragraph 1 (c) or 2 (c). In such a case, the
decision of the Prosecutor shall be effective only if confirmed by the
Pre-Trial Chamber.
4. The
Prosecutor may, at any time, reconsider a decision whether to initiate
an investigation or prosecution based on new facts or information.
Article 54
Duties and powers of the Prosecutor with respect to investigations
1. The
Prosecutor shall:
(a) In order to establish the truth, extend the
investigation to cover all facts and evidence relevant to an assessment
of whether there is criminal responsibility under this Statute, and, in
doing so, investigate incriminating and exonerating circumstances equally;
(b) Take appropriate measures to ensure the effective
investigation and prosecution of crimes within the jurisdiction of the
Court, and in doing so, respect the interests and personal circumstances
of victims and witnesses, including age, gender as defined in article 7,
paragraph 3, and health, and take into account the nature of the crime,
in particular where it involves sexual violence, gender violence or violence
against children; and
(c) Fully respect the rights of persons arising
under this Statute.
2. The
Prosecutor may conduct investigations on the territory of a State:
(a) In accordance with the provisions of Part 9;
or
(b) As authorized by the Pre-Trial Chamber under
article 57, paragraph 3 (d).
3. The
Prosecutor may:
(a) Collect and examine evidence;
(b) Request the presence of and question persons
being investigated, victims and witnesses;
(c) Seek the cooperation of any State or intergovernmental
organization or arrangement in accordance with its respective competence
and/or mandate;
(d) Enter into such arrangements or agreements,
not inconsistent with this Statute, as may be necessary to facilitate the
cooperation of a State, intergovernmental organization or person;
(e) Agree not to disclose, at any stage of the
proceedings, documents or information that the Prosecutor obtains on the
condition of confidentiality and solely for the purpose of generating new
evidence, unless the provider of the information consents; and
(f) Take necessary measures, or request that necessary
measures be taken, to ensure the confidentiality of information, the protection
of any person or the preservation of evidence.
Article 55
Rights of persons during an investigation
1. In
respect of an investigation under this Statute, a person:
(a) Shall not be compelled to incriminate himself
or herself or to confess guilt;
(b) Shall not be subjected to any form of coercion,
duress or threat, to torture or to any other form of cruel, inhuman or
degrading treatment or punishment;
(c) Shall, if questioned in a language other than
a language the person fully understands and speaks, have, free of any cost,
the assistance of a competent interpreter and such translations as are
necessary to meet the requirements of fairness; and
(d) Shall not be subjected to arbitrary arrest
or detention, and shall not be deprived of his or her liberty except on
such grounds and in accordance with such procedures as are established
in this Statute.
2. Where
there are grounds to believe that a person has committed a crime within
the jurisdiction of the Court and that person is about to be questioned
either by the Prosecutor, or by national authorities pursuant to a request
made under Part 9, that person shall also have the following rights of
which he or she shall be informed prior to being questioned:
(a) To be informed, prior to being questioned,
that there are grounds to believe that he or she has committed a crime
within the jurisdiction of the Court;
(b) To remain silent, without such silence being
a consideration in the determination of guilt or innocence;
(c) To have legal assistance of the person's choosing,
or, if the person does not have legal assistance, to have legal assistance
assigned to him or her, in any case where the interests of justice so require,
and without payment by the person in any such case if the person does not
have sufficient means to pay for it; and
(d) To be questioned in the presence of counsel
unless the person has voluntarily waived his or her right to counsel.
Article 56
Role of the Pre-Trial Chamber in relation
to a unique investigative opportunity
1.
(a) Where the Prosecutor considers an investigation
to present a unique opportunity to take testimony or a statement from a
witness or to examine, collect or test evidence, which may not be available
subsequently for the purposes of a trial, the Prosecutor shall so inform
the Pre-Trial Chamber.
(b) In that case, the Pre-Trial Chamber may, upon
request of the Prosecutor, take such measures as may be necessary to ensure
the efficiency and integrity of the proceedings and, in particular, to
protect the rights of the defence.
(c) Unless the Pre-Trial Chamber orders otherwise,
the Prosecutor shall provide the relevant information to the person who
has been arrested or appeared in response to a summons in connection with
the investigation referred to in subparagraph (a), in order that he or
she may be heard on the matter.
2. The
measures referred to in paragraph 1 (b) may include:
(a) Making recommendations or orders regarding
procedures to be followed;
(b) Directing that a record be made of the proceedings;
(c) Appointing an expert to assist;
(d) Authorizing counsel for a person who has been
arrested, or appeared before the Court in response to a summons, to participate,
or where there has not yet been such an arrest or appearance or counsel
has not been designated, appointing another counsel to attend and represent
the interests of the defence;
(e) Naming one of its members or, if necessary,
another available judge of the Pre-Trial or Trial Division to observe and
make recommendations or orders regarding the collection and preservation
of evidence and the questioning of persons;
(f) Taking such other action as may be necessary
to collect or preserve evidence.
3. (a)
Where the Prosecutor has not sought measures pursuant to this article but
the Pre-Trial Chamber considers that such measures are required to preserve
evidence that it deems would be essential for the defence at trial, it
shall consult with the Prosecutor as to whether there is good reason for
the Prosecutor's failure to request the measures. If upon consultation,
the Pre-Trial Chamber concludes that the Prosecutor's failure to request
such measures is unjustified, the Pre-Trial Chamber may take such measures
on its own initiative.
(b)
A decision of the Pre-Trial Chamber to act on its own initiative under
this paragraph may be appealed by the Prosecutor. The appeal shall be heard
on an expedited basis.
4. The
admissibility of evidence preserved or collected for trial pursuant to
this article, or the record thereof, shall be governed at trial by article
69, and given such weight as determined by the Trial Chamber.
Article 57
Functions and powers of the Pre-Trial Chamber
1. Unless
otherwise provided in this Statute, the Pre-Trial Chamber shall exercise
its functions in accordance with the provisions of this article.
2 . (a)
Orders or rulings of the Pre-Trial Chamber issued under articles 15, 18,
19, 54, paragraph 2, 61, paragraph 7, and 72 must be concurred in by a
majority of its judges.
(b) In all other cases, a single judge of the Pre-Trial
Chamber may exercise the functions provided for in this Statute, unless
otherwise provided for in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence or by a majority
of the Pre-Trial Chamber.
3. In
addition to its other functions under this Statute, the Pre-Trial Chamber
may:
(a) At the request of the Prosecutor, issue such
orders and warrants as may be required for the purposes of an investigation;
(b) Upon the request of a person who has been arrested
or has appeared pursuant to a summons under article 58, issue such orders,
including measures such as those described in article 56, or seek such
cooperation pursuant to Part 9 as may be necessary to assist the person
in the preparation of his or her defence;
(c) Where necessary, provide for the protection
and privacy of victims and witnesses, the preservation of evidence, the
protection of persons who have been arrested or appeared in response to
a summons, and the protection of national security information;
(d) Authorize the Prosecutor to take specific investigative
steps within the territory of a State Party without having secured the
cooperation of that State under Part 9 if, whenever possible having regard
to the views of the State concerned, the Pre-Trial Chamber has determined
in that case that the State is clearly unable to execute a request for
cooperation due to the unavailability of any authority or any component
of its judicial system competent to execute the request for cooperation
under Part 9.
(e) Where a warrant of arrest or a summons has
been issued under article 58, and having due regard to the strength of
the evidence and the rights of the parties concerned, as provided for in
this Statute and the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, seek the cooperation
of States pursuant to article 93, paragraph 1 (k), to take protective measures
for the purpose of forfeiture, in particular for the ultimate benefit of
victims.
Article 58
Issuance by the Pre-Trial Chamber of a warrant of arrest
or a summons to appear
1. At
any time after the initiation of an investigation, the Pre-Trial Chamber
shall, on the application of the Prosecutor, issue a warrant of arrest
of a person if, having examined the application and the evidence or other
information submitted by the Prosecutor, it is satisfied that:
(a) There are reasonable grounds to believe that
the person has committed a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court;
and
(b) The arrest of the person appears necessary:
(i) To ensure the person's appearance at trial,
(ii) To ensure that the person does not obstruct
or endanger the investigation or the court proceedings, or
(iii) Where applicable, to prevent the person from
continuing with the commission of that crime or a related crime which is
within the jurisdiction of the Court and which arises out of the same circumstances.
2. The
application of the Prosecutor shall contain:
(a) The name of the person and any other relevant
identifying information;
(b) A specific reference to the crimes within the
jurisdiction of the Court which the person is alleged to have committed;
(c) A concise statement of the facts which are
alleged to constitute those crimes;
(d) A summary of the evidence and any other information
which establish reasonable grounds to believe that the person committed
those crimes; and
(e) The reason why the Prosecutor believes that
the arrest of the person is necessary.
3.
The warrant of arrest shall contain:
(a) The name of the person and any other relevant
identifying information;
(b) A specific reference to the crimes within the
jurisdiction of the Court for which the person's arrest is sought; and
(c) A concise statement of the facts which are
alleged to constitute those crimes.
4. The
warrant of arrest shall remain in effect until otherwise ordered by the
Court.
5. On
the basis of the warrant of arrest, the Court may request the provisional
arrest or the arrest and surrender of the person under Part 9.
6. The
Prosecutor may request the Pre-Trial Chamber to amend the warrant of arrest
by modifying or adding to the crimes specified therein. The Pre-Trial Chamber
shall so amend the warrant if it is satisfied that there are reasonable
grounds to believe that the person committed the modified or additional
crimes.
7. As
an alternative to seeking a warrant of arrest, the Prosecutor may submit
an application requesting that the Pre-Trial Chamber issue a summons for
the person to appear. If the Pre-Trial Chamber is satisfied that there
are reasonable grounds to believe that the person committed the crime alleged
and that a summons is sufficient to ensure the person's appearance, it
shall issue the summons, with or without conditions restricting liberty
(other than detention) if provided for by national law, for the person
to appear. The summons shall contain:
(a) The name of the person and any other relevant
identifying information;
(b) The specified date on which the person is to
appear;
(c) A specific reference to the crimes within the
jurisdiction of the Court which the person is alleged to have committed;
and
(d) A concise statement of the facts which are
alleged to constitute the crime.
The summons shall be served on the person.
Article 59
Arrest proceedings in the custodial State
1. A State
Party which has received a request for provisional arrest or for arrest
and surrender shall immediately take steps to arrest the person in question
in accordance with its laws and the provisions of Part 9.
2. A person
arrested shall be brought promptly before the competent judicial authority
in the custodial State which shall determine, in accordance with the law
of that State, that:
(a) The warrant applies to that person;
(b) The person has been arrested in accordance
with the proper process; and
(c) The person's rights have been respected.
3. The
person arrested shall have the right to apply to the competent authority
in the custodial State for interim release pending surrender.
4. In
reaching a decision on any such application, the competent authority in
the custodial State shall consider whether, given the gravity of the alleged
crimes, there are urgent and exceptional circumstances to justify interim
release and whether necessary safeguards exist to ensure that the custodial
State can fulfil its duty to surrender the person to the Court. It shall
not be open to the competent authority of the custodial State to consider
whether the warrant of arrest was properly issued in accordance with article
58, paragraph 1 (a) and (b).
5. The
Pre-Trial Chamber shall be notified of any request for interim release
and shall make recommendations to the competent authority in the custodial
State. The competent authority in the custodial State shall give full consideration
to such recommendations, including any recommendations on measures to prevent
the escape of the person, before rendering its decision.
6. If
the person is granted interim release, the Pre-Trial Chamber may request
periodic reports on the status of the interim release.
7. Once
ordered to be surrendered by the custodial State, the person shall be delivered
to the Court as soon as possible.
Article 60
Initial proceedings before the Court
1. Upon
the surrender of the person to the Court, or the person's appearance before
the Court voluntarily or pursuant to a summons, the Pre-Trial Chamber shall
satisfy itself that the person has been informed of the crimes which he
or she is alleged to have committed, and of his or her rights under this
Statute, including the right to apply for interim release pending trial.
2. A person
subject to a warrant of arrest may apply for interim release pending trial.
If the Pre-Trial Chamber is satisfied that the conditions set forth in
article 58, paragraph 1, are met, the person shall continue to be detained.
If it is not so satisfied, the Pre-Trial Chamber shall release the person,
with or without conditions.
3. The
Pre-Trial Chamber shall periodically review its ruling on the release or
detention of the person, and may do so at any time on the request of the
Prosecutor or the person. Upon such review, it may modify its ruling as
to detention, release or conditions of release, if it is satisfied that
changed circumstances so require.
4. The
Pre-Trial Chamber shall ensure that a person is not detained for an unreasonable
period prior to trial due to inexcusable delay by the Prosecutor. If such
delay occurs, the Court shall consider releasing the person, with or without
conditions.
5. If
necessary, the Pre-Trial Chamber may issue a warrant of arrest to secure
the presence of a person who has been released.
Article 61
Confirmation of the charges before trial
1. Subject
to the provisions of paragraph 2, within a reasonable time after the person's
surrender or voluntary appearance before the Court, the Pre-Trial Chamber
shall hold a hearing to confirm the charges on which the Prosecutor intends
to seek trial. The hearing shall be held in the presence of the Prosecutor
and the person charged, as well as his or her counsel.
2. The
Pre-Trial Chamber may, upon request of the Prosecutor or on its own motion,
hold a hearing in the absence of the person charged to confirm the charges
on which the Prosecutor intends to seek trial when the person has:
(a) Waived his or her right to be present; or
(b) Fled or cannot be found and all reasonable
steps have been taken to secure his or her appearance before the Court
and to inform the person of the charges and that a hearing to confirm those
charges will be held.
In that case, the person shall be represented by counsel where the Pre-Trial
Chamber determines that it is in the interests of justice.
3. Within
a reasonable time before the hearing, the person shall:
(a) Be provided with a copy of the document containing
the charges on which the Prosecutor intends to bring the person to trial;
and
(b) Be informed of the evidence on which the Prosecutor
intends to rely at the hearing.
The Pre-Trial Chamber may issue orders regarding the disclosure of information
for the purposes of the hearing.
4. Before
the hearing, the Prosecutor may continue the investigation and may amend
or withdraw any charges. The person shall be given reasonable notice before
the hearing of any amendment to or withdrawal of charges. In case of a
withdrawal of charges, the Prosecutor shall notify the Pre-Trial Chamber
of the reasons for the withdrawal.
5. At
the hearing, the Prosecutor shall support each charge with sufficient evidence
to establish substantial grounds to believe that the person committed the
crime charged. The Prosecutor may rely on documentary or summary evidence
and need not call the witnesses expected to testify at the trial.
6. At
the hearing, the person may:
(a) Object to the charges;
(b) Challenge the evidence presented by the Prosecutor;
and
(c) Present evidence.
7. The
Pre-Trial Chamber shall, on the basis of the hearing, determine whether
there is sufficient evidence to establish substantial grounds to believe
that the person committed each of the crimes charged. Based on its determination,
the Pre-Trial Chamber shall:
(a) Confirm those charges in relation to which
it has determined that there is sufficient evidence, and commit the person
to a Trial Chamber for trial on the charges as confirmed;
(b) Decline to confirm those charges in relation
to which it has determined that there is insufficient evidence;
(c) Adjourn the hearing and request the Prosecutor
to consider:
(i) Providing further evidence or conducting further
investigation with respect to a particular charge; or
(ii) Amending a charge because the evidence submitted
appears to establish a different crime within the jurisdiction of the Court.
8. Where
the Pre-Trial Chamber declines to confirm a charge, the Prosecutor shall
not be precluded from subsequently requesting its confirmation if the request
is supported by additional evidence.
9. After
the charges are confirmed and before the trial has begun, the Prosecutor
may, with the permission of the Pre-Trial Chamber and after notice to the
accused, amend the charges. If the Prosecutor seeks to add additional charges
or to substitute more serious charges, a hearing under this article to
confirm those charges must be held. After commencement of the trial, the
Prosecutor may, with the permission of the Trial Chamber, withdraw the
charges.
10. Any
warrant previously issued shall cease to have effect with respect to any
charges which have not been confirmed by the Pre-Trial Chamber or which
have been withdrawn by the Prosecutor.
11. Once
the charges have been confirmed in accordance with this article, the Presidency
shall constitute a Trial Chamber which, subject to paragraph 9 and to article
64, paragraph 4, shall be responsible for the conduct of subsequent proceedings
and may exercise any function of the Pre-Trial Chamber that is relevant
and capable of application in those proceedings.
PART 6. THE TRIAL
Article 62
Place of trial
Unless otherwise
decided, the place of the trial shall be the seat of the Court.
Article 63
Trial in the presence of the accused
1. The
accused shall be present during the trial.
2. If
the accused, being present before the Court, continues to disrupt the trial,
the Trial Chamber may remove the accused and shall make provision for him
or her to observe the trial and instruct counsel from outside the courtroom,
through the use of communications technology, if required. Such measures
shall be taken only in exceptional circumstances after other reasonable
alternatives have proved inadequate, and only for such duration as is strictly
required.
Article 64
Functions and powers of the Trial Chamber
1. The
functions and powers of the Trial Chamber set out in this article shall
be exercised in accordance with this Statute and the Rules of Procedure
and Evidence.
2. The
Trial Chamber shall ensure that a trial is fair and expeditious and is
conducted with full respect for the rights of the accused and due regard
for the protection of victims and witnesses.
3. Upon
assignment of a case for trial in accordance with this Statute, the Trial
Chamber assigned to deal with the case shall:
(a) Confer with the parties and adopt such procedures
as are necessary to facilitate the fair and expeditious conduct of the
proceedings;
(b) Determine the language or languages to be used
at trial; and
(c) Subject to any other relevant provisions of
this Statute, provide for disclosure of documents or information not previously
disclosed, sufficiently in advance of the commencement of the trial to
enable adequate preparation for trial.
4. The
Trial Chamber may, if necessary for its effective and fair functioning,
refer preliminary issues to the Pre-Trial Chamber or, if necessary, to
another available judge of the Pre-Trial Division.
5. Upon
notice to the parties, the Trial Chamber may, as appropriate, direct that
there be joinder or severance in respect of charges against more than one
accused.
6. In
performing its functions prior to trial or during the course of a trial,
the Trial Chamber may, as necessary:
(a) Exercise any functions of the Pre-Trial Chamber
referred to in article 61, paragraph 11;
(b) Require the attendance and testimony of witnesses
and production of documents and other evidence by obtaining, if necessary,
the assistance of States as provided in this Statute;
(c) Provide for the protection of confidential
information;
(d) Order the production of evidence in addition
to that already collected prior to the trial or presented during the trial
by the parties;
(e) Provide for the protection of the accused,
witnesses and victims; and
(f) Rule on any other relevant matters.
7. The
trial shall be held in public. The Trial Chamber may, however, determine
that special circumstances require that certain proceedings be in closed
session for the purposes set forth in article 68, or to protect confidential
or sensitive information to be given in evidence.
8. (a)
At the commencement of the trial, the Trial Chamber shall have read to
the accused the charges previously confirmed by the Pre-Trial Chamber.
The Trial Chamber shall satisfy itself that the accused understands the
nature of the charges. It shall afford him or her the opportunity to make
an admission of guilt in accordance with article 65 or to plead not guilty.
(b) At the trial, the presiding judge may give
directions for the conduct of proceedings, including to ensure that they
are conducted in a fair and impartial manner. Subject to any directions
of the presiding judge, the parties may submit evidence in accordance with
the provisions of this Statute.
9. The
Trial Chamber shall have, inter alia, the power on application of
a party or on its own motion to:
(a) Rule on the admissibility or relevance of evidence;
and
(b) Take all necessary steps to maintain order
in the course of a hearing.
10. The
Trial Chamber shall ensure that a complete record of the trial, which accurately
reflects the proceedings, is made and that it is maintained and preserved
by the Registrar.
Article 65
Proceedings on an admission of guilt
1. Where
the accused makes an admission of guilt pursuant to article 64, paragraph
8 (a), the Trial Chamber shall determine whether:
(a) The accused understands the nature and consequences
of the admission of guilt;
(b) The admission is voluntarily made by the accused
after sufficient consultation with defence counsel; and
(c) The admission of guilt is supported by the
facts of the case that are contained in:
(i) The charges brought by the Prosecutor and admitted
by the accused;
(ii) Any materials presented by the Prosecutor
which supplement the charges and which the accused accepts; and
(iii) Any other evidence, such as the testimony
of witnesses, presented by the Prosecutor or the accused.
2. Where
the Trial Chamber is satisfied that the matters referred to in paragraph
1 are established, it shall consider the admission of guilt, together with
any additional evidence presented, as establishing all the essential facts
that are required to prove the crime to which the admission of guilt relates,
and may convict the accused of that crime.
3. Where
the Trial Chamber is not satisfied that the matters referred to in paragraph
1 are established, it shall consider the admission of guilt as not having
been made, in which case it shall order that the trial be continued under
the ordinary trial procedures provided by this Statute and may remit the
case to another Trial Chamber.
4. Where
the Trial Chamber is of the opinion that a more complete presentation of
the facts of the case is required in the interests of justice, in particular
the interests of the victims, the Trial Chamber may:
(a) Request the Prosecutor to present additional
evidence, including the testimony of witnesses; or
(b) Order that the trial be continued under the
ordinary trial procedures provided by this Statute, in which case it shall
consider the admission of guilt as not having been made and may remit the
case to another Trial Chamber.
5. Any
discussions between the Prosecutor and the defence regarding modification
of the charges, the admission of guilt or the penalty to be imposed shall
not be binding on the Court.
Article 66
Presumption of innocence
1. Everyone
shall be presumed innocent until proved guilty before the Court in accordance
with the applicable law.
2. The
onus is on the Prosecutor to prove the guilt of the accused.
3. In
order to convict the accused, the Court must be convinced of the guilt
of the accused beyond reasonable doubt.
Article 67
Rights of the accused
1. In
the determination of any charge, the accused shall be entitled to a public
hearing, having regard to the provisions of this Statute, to a fair hearing
conducted impartially, and to the following minimum guarantees, in full
equality:
(a) To be informed promptly and in detail of the
nature, cause and content of the charge, in a language which the accused
fully understands and speaks;
(b) To have adequate time and facilities for the
preparation of the defence and to communicate freely with counsel of the
accused's choosing in confidence;
(c) To be tried without undue delay;
(d) Subject to article 63, paragraph 2, to be present
at the trial, to conduct the defence in person or through legal assistance
of the accused's choosing, to be informed, if the accused does not have
legal assistance, of this right and to have legal assistance assigned by
the Court in any case where the interests of justice so require, and without
payment if the accused lacks sufficient means to pay for it;
(e) To examine, or have examined, the witnesses
against him or her and to obtain the attendance and examination of witnesses
on his or her behalf under the same conditions as witnesses against him
or her. The accused shall also be entitled to raise defences and to present
other evidence admissible under this Statute;
(f) To have, free of any cost, the assistance of
a competent interpreter and such translations as are necessary to meet
the requirements of fairness, if any of the proceedings of or documents
presented to the Court are not in a language which the accused fully understands
and speaks;
(g) Not to be compelled to testify or to confess
guilt and to remain silent, without such silence being a consideration
in the determination of guilt or innocence;
(h) To make an unsworn oral or written statement
in his or her defence; and
(i) Not to have imposed on him or her any reversal
of the burden of proof or any onus of rebuttal.
2. In
addition to any other disclosure provided for in this Statute, the Prosecutor
shall, as soon as practicable, disclose to the defence evidence in the
Prosecutor's possession or control which he or she believes shows or tends
to show the innocence of the accused, or to mitigate the guilt of the accused,
or which may affect the credibility of prosecution evidence. In case of
doubt as to the application of this paragraph, the Court shall decide.
Article 68
Protection of the victims and witnesses and their
participation in the proceedings
1. The
Court shall take appropriate measures to protect the safety, physical and
psychological well-being, dignity and privacy of victims and witnesses.
In so doing, the Court shall have regard to all relevant factors, including
age, gender as defined in article 7, paragraph 3, and health, and the nature
of the crime, in particular, but not limited to, where the crime involves
sexual or gender violence or violence against children. The Prosecutor
shall take such measures particularly during the investigation and prosecution
of such crimes. These measures shall not be prejudicial to or inconsistent
with the rights of the accused and a fair and impartial trial.
2. As
an exception to the principle of public hearings provided for in article
67, the Chambers of the Court may, to protect victims and witnesses or
an accused, conduct any part of the proceedings in camera or allow
the presentation of evidence by electronic or other special means. In particular,
such measures shall be implemented in the case of a victim of sexual violence
or a child who is a victim or a witness, unless otherwise ordered by the
Court, having regard to all the circumstances, particularly the views of
the victim or witness.
3. Where
the personal interests of the victims are affected, the Court shall permit
their views and concerns to be presented and considered at stages of the
proceedings determined to be appropriate by the Court and in a manner which
is not prejudicial to or inconsistent with the rights of the accused and
a fair and impartial trial. Such views and concerns may be presented by
the
legal representatives of the victims where the Court considers it appropriate,
in accordance with the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
4. The
Victims and Witnesses Unit may advise the Prosecutor and the Court on appropriate
protective measures, security arrangements, counselling and assistance
as referred to in article 43, paragraph 6.
5. Where
the disclosure of evidence or information pursuant to this Statute may
lead to the grave endangerment of the security of a witness or his or her
family, the Prosecutor may, for the purposes of any proceedings conducted
prior to the commencement of the trial, withhold such evidence or information
and instead submit a summary thereof. Such measures shall be exercised
in a manner which is not prejudicial to or inconsistent with the rights
of the accused and a fair and impartial trial.
6. A State
may make an application for necessary measures to be taken in respect of
the protection of its servants or agents and the protection of confidential
or sensitive information.
Article 69
Evidence
1. Before
testifying, each witness shall, in accordance with the Rules of Procedure
and Evidence, give an undertaking as to the truthfulness of the evidence
to be given by that witness.
2. The
testimony of a witness at trial shall be given in person, except to the
extent provided by the measures set forth in article 68 or in the Rules
of Procedure and Evidence. The Court may also permit the giving of viva
voce (oral) or recorded testimony of a witness by means of video or
audio technology, as well as the introduction of documents or written transcripts,
subject to this Statute and in accordance with the Rules of Procedure and
Evidence. These measures shall not be prejudicial to or inconsistent with
the rights of the accused.
3. The
parties may submit evidence relevant to the case, in accordance with article
64. The Court shall have the authority to request the submission of all
evidence that it considers necessary for the determination of the truth.
4. The
Court may rule on the relevance or admissibility of any evidence, taking
into account, inter alia, the probative value of the evidence and
any prejudice that such evidence may cause to a fair trial or to a fair
evaluation of the testimony of a witness, in accordance with the Rules
of Procedure and Evidence.
5. The
Court shall respect and observe privileges on confidentiality as provided
for in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
6. The
Court shall not require proof of facts of common knowledge but may take
judicial notice of them.
7. Evidence
obtained by means of a violation of this Statute or internationally recognized
human rights shall not be admissible if:
(a) The violation casts substantial doubt on the
reliability of the evidence; or
(b) The admission of the evidence would be antithetical
to and would seriously damage the integrity of the proceedings.
8. When
deciding on the relevance or admissibility of evidence collected by a State,
the Court shall not rule on the application of the State's national law.
Article 70
Offences against the administration of justice
1. The
Court shall have jurisdiction over the following offences against its administration
of justice when committed intentionally:
(a) Giving false testimony when under an obligation
pursuant to article 69, paragraph 1, to tell the truth;
(b) Presenting evidence that the party knows is
false or forged;
(c) Corruptly influencing a witness, obstructing
or interfering with the attendance or testimony of a witness, retaliating
against a witness for giving testimony or destroying, tampering with or
interfering with the collection of evidence;
(d) Impeding, intimidating or corruptly influencing
an official of the Court for the purpose of forcing or persuading the official
not to perform, or to perform improperly, his or her duties;
(e) Retaliating against an official of the Court
on account of duties performed by that or another official;
(f) Soliciting or accepting a bribe as an official
of the Court in connection with his or her official duties.
2. The
principles and procedures governing the Court's exercise of jurisdiction
over offences under this article shall be those provided for in the Rules
of Procedure and Evidence. The conditions for providing international cooperation
to the Court with respect to its proceedings under this article shall be
governed by the domestic laws of the requested State.
3. In
the event of conviction, the Court may impose a term of imprisonment not
exceeding five years, or a fine in accordance with the Rules of Procedure
and Evidence, or both.
4. (a)
Each State Party shall extend its criminal laws penalizing offences against
the integrity of its own investigative or judicial process to offences
against the administration of justice referred to in this article, committed
on its territory, or by one of its nationals;
(b) Upon request by the Court, whenever it deems
it proper, the State Party shall submit the case to its competent authorities
for the purpose of prosecution. Those authorities shall treat such cases
with diligence and devote sufficient resources to enable them to be conducted
effectively.
Article 71
Sanctions for misconduct before the Court
1. The
Court may sanction persons present before it who commit misconduct, including
disruption of its proceedings or deliberate refusal to comply with its
directions, by administrative measures other than imprisonment, such as
temporary or permanent removal from the courtroom, a fine or other similar
measures provided for in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
2. The
procedures governing the imposition of the measures set forth in paragraph
1 shall be those provided for in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
Article 72
Protection of national security information
1. This
article applies in any case where the disclosure of the information or
documents of a State would, in the opinion of that State, prejudice its
national security interests. Such cases include those falling within the
scope of article 56, paragraphs 2 and 3, article 61, paragraph 3, article
64, paragraph 3, article 67, paragraph 2, article 68, paragraph 6, article
87, paragraph 6 and article 93, as well as cases arising at any other stage
of the proceedings where such disclosure may be at issue.
2. This
article shall also apply when a person who has been requested to give information
or evidence has refused to do so or has referred the matter to the State
on the ground that disclosure would prejudice the national security interests
of a State and the State concerned confirms that it is of the opinion that
disclosure would prejudice its national security interests.
3. Nothing
in this article shall prejudice the requirements of confidentiality applicable
under article 54, paragraph 3 (e) and (f), or the application of article
73.
4. If
a State learns that information or documents of the State are being, or
are likely to be, disclosed at any stage of the proceedings, and it is
of the opinion that disclosure would prejudice its national security interests,
that State shall have the right to intervene in order to obtain resolution
of the issue in accordance with this article.
5. If,
in the opinion of a State, disclosure of information would prejudice its
national security interests, all reasonable steps will be taken by the
State, acting in conjunction with the Prosecutor, the defence or the Pre-Trial
Chamber or Trial Chamber, as the case may be, to seek to resolve the matter
by cooperative means. Such steps may include:
(a) Modification or clarification of the request;
(b) A determination by the Court regarding the
relevance of the information or evidence sought, or a determination as
to whether the evidence, though relevant, could be or has been obtained
from a source other than the requested State;
(c) Obtaining the information or evidence from
a different source or in a different form; or
(d) Agreement on conditions under which the assistance
could be provided including, among other things, providing summaries or
redactions, limitations on disclosure, use of in camera or ex
parte proceedings, or other protective measures permissible under the
Statute and the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
6. Once
all reasonable steps have been taken to resolve the matter through cooperative
means, and if the State considers that there are no means or conditions
under which the information or documents could be provided or disclosed
without prejudice to its national security interests, it shall so notify
the Prosecutor or the Court of the specific reasons for its decision, unless
a specific description of the reasons would itself necessarily result in
such prejudice to the State's national security interests.
7. Thereafter,
if the Court determines that the evidence is relevant and necessary for
the establishment of the guilt or innocence of the accused, the Court may
undertake the following actions:
(a) Where disclosure of the information or document
is sought pursuant to a request for cooperation under Part 9 or the circumstances
described in paragraph 2, and the State has invoked the ground for refusal
referred to in article 93, paragraph 4:
(i) The Court may, before making any conclusion
referred to in subparagraph 7 (a) (ii), request further consultations for
the purpose of considering the State's representations, which may include,
as appropriate, hearings in camera and ex parte;
(ii) If the Court concludes that, by invoking the
ground for refusal under article 93, paragraph 4, in the circumstances
of the case, the requested State is not acting in accordance with its obligations
under this Statute, the Court may refer the matter in accordance with article
87, paragraph 7, specifying the reasons for its conclusion; and
(iii) The Court may make such inference in the
trial of the accused as to the existence or non-existence of a fact, as
may be appropriate in the circumstances; or
(b) In all other circumstances:
(i) Order disclosure; or
(ii) To the extent it does not order disclosure,
make such inference in the trial of the accused as to the existence or
non-existence of a fact, as may be appropriate in the circumstances.
Article 73
Third-party information or documents
If a State Party is requested by the Court to provide a document or information
in its custody, possession or control, which was disclosed to it in confidence
by a State, intergovernmental organization or international organization,
it shall seek the consent of the originator to disclose that document or
information. If the originator is a State Party, it shall either consent
to disclosure of the information or document or undertake to resolve the
issue of disclosure with the Court, subject to the provisions of article
72. If the originator is not a State Party and refuses to consent to disclosure,
the requested State shall inform the Court that it is unable to provide
the document or information because of a pre-existing obligation of confidentiality
to the originator.
Article 74
Requirements for the decision
1. All
the judges of the Trial Chamber shall be present at each stage of the trial
and throughout their deliberations. The Presidency may, on a case-by-case
basis, designate, as available, one or more alternate judges to be present
at each stage of the trial and to replace a member of the Trial Chamber
if that member is unable to continue attending.
2. The
Trial Chamber's decision shall be based on its evaluation of the evidence
and the entire proceedings. The decision shall not exceed the facts and
circumstances described in the charges and any amendments to the charges.
The Court may base its decision only on evidence submitted and discussed
before it at the trial.
3. The
judges shall attempt to achieve unanimity in their decision, failing which
the decision shall be taken by a majority of the judges.
4. The
deliberations of the Trial Chamber shall remain secret.
5. The
decision shall be in writing and shall contain a full and reasoned statement
of the Trial Chamber's findings on the evidence and conclusions. The Trial
Chamber shall issue one decision. When there is no unanimity, the Trial
Chamber's decision shall contain the views of the majority and the minority.
The decision or a summary thereof shall be delivered in open court.
Article 75
Reparations to victims
1. The
Court shall establish principles relating to reparations to, or in respect
of, victims, including restitution, compensation and rehabilitation. On
this basis, in its decision the Court may, either upon request or on its
own motion in exceptional circumstances, determine the scope and extent
of any damage, loss and injury to, or in respect of, victims and will state
the principles on which it is acting.
2. The
Court may make an order directly against a convicted person specifying
appropriate reparations to, or in respect of, victims, including restitution,
compensation and rehabilitation.
Where appropriate, the Court may order that the award for reparations be
made through the Trust Fund provided for in article 79.
3. Before
making an order under this article, the Court may invite and shall take
account of representations from or on behalf of the convicted person, victims,
other interested persons or interested States.
4. In
exercising its power under this article, the Court may, after a person
is convicted of a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court, determine
whether, in order to give effect to an order which it may make under this
article, it is necessary to seek measures under article 93, paragraph 1.
5. A State
Party shall give effect to a decision under this article as if the provisions
of article 109 were applicable to this article.
6. Nothing
in this article shall be interpreted as prejudicing the rights of victims
under national or international law.
Article 76
Sentencing
1. In
the event of a conviction, the Trial Chamber shall consider the appropriate
sentence to be imposed and shall take into account the evidence presented
and submissions made during the trial that are relevant to the sentence.
2. Except
where article 65 applies and before the completion of the trial, the Trial
Chamber may on its own motion and shall, at the request of the Prosecutor
or the accused, hold a further hearing to hear any additional evidence
or submissions relevant to the sentence, in accordance with the Rules of
Procedure and Evidence.
3. Where
paragraph 2 applies, any representations under article 75 shall be heard
during the further hearing referred to in paragraph 2 and, if necessary,
during any additional hearing.
4. The
sentence shall be pronounced in public and, wherever possible, in the presence
of the accused.
PART 7. PENALTIES
Article 77
Applicable penalties
1. Subject
to article 110, the Court may impose one of the following penalties on
a person convicted of a crime referred to in article 5 of this Statute:
(a) Imprisonment for a specified number of years,
which may not exceed a maximum of 30 years; or
(b) A term of life imprisonment when justified
by the extreme gravity of the crime and the individual circumstances of
the convicted person.
2. In
addition to imprisonment, the Court may order:
(a) A fine under the criteria provided for in the
Rules of Procedure and Evidence;
(b) A forfeiture of proceeds, property and assets
derived directly or indirectly from that crime, without prejudice to the
rights of bona fide third parties.
Article 78
Determination of the sentence
1. In
determining the sentence, the Court shall, in accordance with the Rules
of Procedure and Evidence, take into account such factors as the gravity
of the crime and the individual circumstances of the convicted person.
2. In
imposing a sentence of imprisonment, the Court shall deduct the time, if
any, previously spent in detention in accordance with an order of the Court.
The Court may deduct any time otherwise spent in detention in connection
with conduct underlying the crime.
3. When
a person has been convicted of more than one crime, the Court shall pronounce
a sentence for each crime and a joint sentence specifying the total period
of imprisonment. This period shall be no less than the highest individual
sentence pronounced and shall not exceed 30 years imprisonment or a sentence
of life imprisonment in conformity with article 77, paragraph 1 (b).
Article 79
Trust Fund
1. A Trust
Fund shall be established by decision of the Assembly of States Parties
for the benefit of victims of crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court,
and of the families of such victims.
2. The
Court may order money and other property collected through fines or forfeiture
to be transferred, by order of the Court, to the Trust Fund.
3. The
Trust Fund shall be managed according to criteria to be determined by the
Assembly of States Parties.
Article 80
Non-prejudice to national application of
penalties and national laws
Nothing in this Part affects the application by States of penalties prescribed
by their national law, nor the law of States which do not provide for penalties
prescribed in this Part.
PART 8. APPEAL AND REVISION
Article 81
Appeal against decision of acquittal or conviction
or against sentence
1. A decision
under article 74 may be appealed in accordance with the Rules of Procedure
and Evidence as follows:
(a) The Prosecutor may make an appeal on any of
the following grounds:
(i) Procedural error,
(ii) Error of fact, or
(iii) Error of law;
(b) The convicted person, or the Prosecutor on
that person's behalf, may make an appeal on any of the following grounds:
(i) Procedural error,
(ii) Error of fact,
(iii) Error of law, or
(iv) Any other ground that affects the fairness
or reliability of the proceedings or decision.
2. (a)
A sentence may be appealed, in accordance with the Rules of Procedure and
Evidence, by the Prosecutor or the convicted person on the ground of disproportion
between the crime and the sentence;
(b) If on an appeal against sentence the Court
considers that there are grounds on which the conviction might be set aside,
wholly or in part, it may invite the Prosecutor and the convicted person
to submit grounds under article 81, paragraph 1 (a) or (b), and may render
a decision on conviction in accordance with article 83;
(c) The same procedure applies when the Court,
on an appeal against conviction only, considers that there are grounds
to reduce the sentence under paragraph 2 (a).
3. (a)
Unless the Trial Chamber orders otherwise, a convicted person shall remain
in custody pending an appeal;
(b) When a convicted person's time in custody exceeds
the sentence of imprisonment imposed, that person shall be released, except
that if the Prosecutor is also appealing, the release may be subject to
the conditions under subparagraph (c) below;
(c) In case of an acquittal, the accused shall
be released immediately, subject to the following:
(i) Under exceptional circumstances, and having
regard,
inter alia, to the concrete risk of flight, the seriousness
of the offence charged and the probability of success on appeal, the Trial
Chamber, at the request of the Prosecutor, may maintain the detention of
the person pending appeal;
(ii) A decision by the Trial Chamber under subparagraph
(c) (i) may be appealed in accordance with the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
4. Subject
to the provisions of paragraph 3 (a) and (b), execution of the decision
or sentence shall be suspended during the period allowed for appeal and
for the duration of the appeal proceedings.
Article 82
Appeal against other decisions
1. Either
party may appeal any of the following decisions in accordance with the
Rules of Procedure and Evidence:
(a) A decision with respect to jurisdiction or
admissibility;
(b) A decision granting or denying release of the
person being investigated or prosecuted;
(c) A decision of the Pre-Trial Chamber to act
on its own initiative under article 56, paragraph 3;
(d) A decision that involves an issue that would
significantly affect the fair and expeditious conduct of the proceedings
or the outcome of the trial, and for which, in the opinion of the Pre-Trial
or Trial Chamber, an immediate resolution by the Appeals Chamber may materially
advance the proceedings.
2. A decision
of the Pre-Trial Chamber under article 57, paragraph 3 (d), may be appealed
against by the State concerned or by the Prosecutor, with the leave of
the Pre-Trial Chamber. The appeal shall be heard on an expedited basis.
3. An appeal shall not of itself
have suspensive effect unless the Appeals Chamber so orders, upon request,
in accordance with the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
4. A legal representative of the
victims, the convicted person or a bona fide owner of property adversely
affected by an order under article 75 may appeal against the order for
reparations, as provided in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
Article 83
Proceedings on appeal
1. For
the purposes of proceedings under article 81 and this article, the Appeals
Chamber shall have all the powers of the Trial Chamber.
2. If
the Appeals Chamber finds that the proceedings appealed from were unfair
in a way that affected the reliability of the decision or sentence, or
that the decision or sentence appealed from was materially affected by
error of fact or law or procedural error, it may:
(a) Reverse or amend the decision or sentence;
or
(b) Order a new trial before a different Trial
Chamber.
For these purposes, the Appeals Chamber may remand a factual issue to the
original Trial Chamber for it to determine the issue and to report back
accordingly, or may itself call evidence to determine the issue. When the
decision or sentence has been appealed only by the person convicted, or
the Prosecutor on that person's behalf, it cannot be amended to his or
her detriment.
3. If
in an appeal against sentence the Appeals Chamber finds that the sentence
is disproportionate to the crime, it may vary the sentence in accordance
with Part 7.
4. The
judgement of the Appeals Chamber shall be taken by a majority of the judges
and shall be delivered in open court. The judgement shall state the reasons
on which it is based. When there is no unanimity, the judgement of the
Appeals Chamber shall contain the views of the majority and the minority,
but a judge may deliver a separate or dissenting opinion on a question
of law.
5. The
Appeals Chamber may deliver its judgement in the absence of the person
acquitted or convicted.
Article 84
Revision of conviction or sentence
1. The
convicted person or, after death, spouses, children, parents or one person
alive at the time of the accused's death who has been given express written
instructions from the accused to bring such a claim, or the Prosecutor
on the person's behalf, may apply to the Appeals Chamber to revise the
final judgement of conviction or sentence on the grounds that:
(a) New evidence has been discovered that:
(i) Was not available at the time of trial, and
such unavailability was not wholly or partially attributable to the party
making application; and
(ii) Is sufficiently important that had it been
proved at trial it would have been likely to have resulted in a different
verdict;
(b) It has been newly discovered that decisive
evidence, taken into account at trial and upon which the conviction depends,
was false, forged or falsified;
(c) One or more of the judges who participated
in conviction or confirmation of the charges has committed, in that case,
an act of serious misconduct or serious breach of duty of sufficient gravity
to justify the removal of that judge or those judges from office under
article 46.
2. The Appeals
Chamber shall reject the application if it considers it to be unfounded.
If it determines that the application is meritorious, it may, as appropriate:
(a) Reconvene the original Trial Chamber;
(b) Constitute a new Trial Chamber; or
(c) Retain jurisdiction over the matter,
with a view to, after hearing the parties in the manner
set forth in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, arriving at a determination
on whether the judgement should be revised.
Article 85
Compensation to an arrested or convicted person
1. Anyone
who has been the victim of unlawful arrest or detention shall have an enforceable
right to compensation.
2. When
a person has by a final decision been convicted of a criminal offence,
and when subsequently his or her conviction has been reversed on the ground
that a new or newly discovered fact shows conclusively that there has been
a miscarriage of justice, the person who has suffered punishment as a result
of such conviction shall be compensated according to law, unless it is
proved that the non-disclosure of the unknown fact in time is wholly or
partly attributable to him or her.
3. In
exceptional circumstances, where the Court finds conclusive facts showing
that there has been a grave and manifest miscarriage of justice, it may
in its discretion award compensation, according to the criteria provided
in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, to a person who has been released
from detention following a final decision of acquittal or a termination
of the proceedings for that reason.
PART 9. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION AND JUDICIAL ASSISTANCE
Article 86
General obligation to cooperate
States Parties shall, in accordance with the provisions of this Statute,
cooperate fully with the Court in its investigation and prosecution of
crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court.
Article 87
Requests for cooperation: general provisions
1. (a)
The Court shall have the authority to make requests to States Parties for
cooperation. The requests shall be transmitted through the diplomatic channel
or any other appropriate channel as may be designated by each State Party
upon ratification, acceptance, approval or accession.
Subsequent changes to the designation shall be made by each State Party
in accordance with the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
(b) When appropriate, without prejudice to the
provisions of subparagraph (a), requests may also be transmitted through
the International Criminal Police Organization or any appropriate regional
organization.
2. Requests
for cooperation and any documents supporting the request shall either be
in or be accompanied by a translation into an official language of the
requested State or one of the working languages of the Court, in accordance
with the choice made by that State upon ratification, acceptance, approval
or accession.
Subsequent changes to this choice shall be made in accordance with the
Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
3. The
requested State shall keep confidential a request for cooperation and any
documents supporting the request, except to the extent that the disclosure
is necessary for execution of the request.
4. In
relation to any request for assistance presented under this Part, the Court
may take such measures, including measures related to the protection of
information, as may be necessary to ensure the safety or physical or psychological
well-being of any victims, potential witnesses and their families. The
Court may request that any information that is made available under this
Part shall be provided and handled in a manner that protects the safety
and physical or psychological well-being of any victims, potential witnesses
and their families.
5. (a)
The Court may invite any State not party to this Statute to provide assistance
under this Part on the basis of an ad hoc arrangement, an agreement with
such State or any other appropriate basis.
(b) Where a State not party to this Statute, which
has entered into an ad hoc arrangement or an agreement with the Court,
fails to cooperate with requests pursuant to any such arrangement or agreement,
the Court may so inform the Assembly of States Parties or, where the Security
Council referred the matter to the Court, the Security Council.
6. The
Court may ask any intergovernmental organization to provide information
or documents. The Court may also ask for other forms of cooperation and
assistance which may be agreed upon with such an organization and which
are in accordance with its competence or mandate.
7. Where
a State Party fails to comply with a request to cooperate by the Court
contrary to the provisions of this Statute, thereby preventing the Court
from exercising its functions and powers under this Statute, the Court
may make a finding to that effect and refer the matter to the Assembly
of States Parties or, where the Security Council referred the matter to
the Court, to the Security Council.
Article 88
Availability of procedures under national law
States Parties shall ensure that there are procedures available under their
national law for all of the forms of cooperation which are specified under
this Part.
Article 89
Surrender of persons to the Court
1. The
Court may transmit a request for the arrest and surrender of a person,
together with the material supporting the request outlined in article 91,
to any State on the territory of which that person may be found and shall
request the cooperation of that State in the arrest and surrender of such
a person. States Parties shall, in accordance with the provisions of this
Part and the procedure under their national law, comply with requests for
arrest and surrender.
2. Where
the person sought for surrender brings a challenge before a national court
on the basis of the principle of ne bis in idem as provided in article
20, the requested State shall immediately consult with the Court to determine
if there has been a relevant ruling on admissibility. If the case is admissible,
the requested State shall proceed with the execution of the request. If
an admissibility ruling is pending, the requested State may postpone the
execution of the request for surrender of the person until the Court makes
a determination on admissibility.
3. (a)
A State Party shall authorize, in accordance with its national procedural
law, transportation through its territory of a person being surrendered
to the Court by another State, except where transit through that State
would impede or delay the surrender.
(b) A request by the Court for transit shall be
transmitted in accordance with article 87. The request for transit shall
contain:
(i) A description of the person being transported;
(ii) A brief statement of the facts of the case and their
legal characterization; and
(iii) The warrant for arrest and surrender;
(c) A person being transported shall be detained
in custody during the period of transit;
(d) No authorization is required if the person
is transported by air and no landing is scheduled on the territory of the
transit State;
(e) If an unscheduled landing occurs on the territory
of the transit State, that State may require a request for transit from
the Court as provided for in subparagraph (b). The transit State shall
detain the person being transported until the request for transit is received
and the transit is effected, provided that detention for purposes of this
subparagraph may not be extended beyond 96 hours from the unscheduled landing
unless the request is received within that time.
4. If
the person sought is being proceeded against or is serving a sentence in
the requested State for a crime different from that for which surrender
to the Court is sought, the requested State, after making its decision
to grant the request, shall consult with the Court.
Article 90
Competing requests
1. A State
Party which receives a request from the Court for the surrender of a person
under article 89 shall, if it also receives a request from any other State
for the extradition of the same person for the same conduct which forms
the basis of the crime for which the Court seeks the person's surrender,
notify the Court and the requesting State of that fact.
2. Where
the requesting State is a State Party, the requested State shall give priority
to the request from the Court if:
(a) The Court has, pursuant to article 18 or 19,
made a determination that the case in respect of which surrender is sought
is admissible and that determination takes into account the investigation
or prosecution conducted by the requesting State in respect of its request
for extradition; or
(b) The Court makes the determination described
in subparagraph (a) pursuant to the requested State's notification under
paragraph 1.
3. Where
a determination under paragraph 2 (a) has not been made, the requested
State may, at its discretion, pending the determination of the Court under
paragraph 2 (b), proceed to deal with the request for extradition from
the requesting State but shall not extradite the person until the Court
has determined that the case is inadmissible. The Court's determination
shall be made on an expedited basis.
4. If
the requesting State is a State not Party to this Statute the requested
State, if it is not under an international obligation to extradite the
person to the requesting State, shall give priority to the request for
surrender from the Court, if the Court has determined that the case is
admissible.
5. Where
a case under paragraph 4 has not been determined to be admissible by the
Court, the requested State may, at its discretion, proceed to deal with
the request for extradition from the requesting State.
6. In
cases where paragraph 4 applies except that the requested State is under
an existing international obligation to extradite the person to the requesting
State not Party to this Statute, the requested State shall determine whether
to surrender the person to the Court or extradite the person to the requesting
State. In making its decision, the requested State shall consider all the
relevant factors, including but not limited to:
(a) The respective dates of the requests;
(b) The interests of the requesting State including,
where relevant, whether the crime was committed in its territory and the
nationality of the victims and of the person sought; and
(c) The possibility of subsequent surrender between
the Court and the requesting State.
7. Where
a State Party which receives a request from the Court for the surrender
of a person also receives a request from any State for the extradition
of the same person for conduct other than that which constitutes the crime
for which the Court seeks the person's surrender:
(a) The requested State shall, if it is not under
an existing international obligation to extradite the person to the requesting
State, give priority to the request from the Court;
(b) The requested State shall, if it is under an
existing international obligation to extradite the person to the requesting
State, determine whether to surrender the person to the Court or to extradite
the person to the requesting State. In making its decision, the requested
State shall consider all the relevant factors, including but not limited
to those set out in paragraph 6, but shall give special consideration to
the relative nature and gravity of the conduct in question.
8. Where
pursuant to a notification under this article, the Court has determined
a case to be inadmissible, and subsequently extradition to the requesting
State is refused, the requested State shall notify the Court of this decision.
Article 91
Contents of request for arrest and surrender
1. A request
for arrest and surrender shall be made in writing. In urgent cases, a request
may be made by any medium capable of delivering a written record, provided
that the request shall be confirmed through the channel provided for in
article 87, paragraph 1 (a).
2. In
the case of a request for the arrest and surrender of a person for whom
a warrant of arrest has been issued by the Pre-Trial Chamber under article
58, the request shall contain or be supported by:
(a) Information describing the person sought, sufficient
to identify the person, and information as to that person's probable location;
(b) A copy of the warrant of arrest; and
(c) Such documents, statements or information as
may be necessary to meet the requirements for the surrender process in
the requested State, except that those requirements should not be more
burdensome than those applicable to requests for extradition pursuant to
treaties or arrangements between the requested State and other States and
should, if possible, be less burdensome, taking into account the distinct
nature of the Court.
3. In
the case of a request for the arrest and surrender of a person already
convicted, the request shall contain or be supported by:
(a) A copy of any warrant of arrest for that person;
(b) A copy of the judgement of conviction;
(c) Information to demonstrate that the person
sought is the one referred to in the judgement of conviction; and
(d) If the person sought has been sentenced, a
copy of the sentence imposed and, in the case of a sentence for imprisonment,
a statement of any time already served and the time remaining to be served.
4. Upon
the request of the Court, a State Party shall consult with the Court, either
generally or with respect to a specific matter, regarding any requirements
under its national law that may apply under paragraph 2 (c). During the
consultations, the State Party shall advise the Court of the specific requirements
of its national law.
Article 92
Provisional arrest
1. In
urgent cases, the Court may request the provisional arrest of the person
sought, pending presentation of the request for surrender and the documents
supporting the request as specified in article 91.
2. The
request for provisional arrest shall be made by any medium capable of delivering
a written record and shall contain:
(a) Information describing the person sought, sufficient
to identify the person, and information as to that person's probable location;
(b) A concise statement of the crimes for which
the person's arrest is sought and of the facts which are alleged to constitute
those crimes, including, where possible, the date and location of the crime;
(c) A statement of the existence of a warrant of
arrest or a judgement of conviction against the person sought; and
(d) A statement that a request for surrender of
the person sought will follow.
3. A person
who is provisionally arrested may be released from custody if the requested
State has not received the request for surrender and the documents supporting
the request as specified in article 91 within the time limits specified
in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence. However, the person may consent
to surrender before the expiration of this period if permitted by the law
of the requested State. In such a case, the requested State shall proceed
to surrender the person to the Court as soon as possible.
4. The
fact that the person sought has been released from custody pursuant to
paragraph 3 shall not prejudice the subsequent arrest and surrender of
that person if the request for surrender and the documents supporting the
request are delivered at a later date.
Article 93
Other forms of cooperation
1. States
Parties shall, in accordance with the provisions of this Part and under
procedures of national law, comply with requests by the Court to provide
the following assistance in relation to investigations or prosecutions:
(a) The identification and whereabouts of persons
or the location of items;
(b) The taking of evidence, including testimony
under oath, and the production of evidence, including expert opinions and
reports necessary to the Court;
(c) The questioning of any person being investigated
or prosecuted;
(d) The service of documents, including judicial
documents;
(e) Facilitating the voluntary appearance of persons
as witnesses or experts before the Court;
(f) The temporary transfer of persons as provided
in paragraph 7;
(g) The examination of places or sites, including
the exhumation and examination of grave sites;
(h) The execution of searches and seizures;
(i) The provision of records and documents, including
official records and documents;
(j) The protection of victims and witnesses and
the preservation of evidence;
(k) The identification, tracing and freezing or
seizure of proceeds, property and assets and instrumentalities of crimes
for the purpose of eventual forfeiture, without prejudice to the rights
of bona fide third parties; and
(l) Any other type of assistance which is not prohibited
by the law of the requested State, with a view to facilitating the investigation
and prosecution of crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court.
2. The
Court shall have the authority to provide an assurance to a witness or
an expert appearing before the Court that he or she will not be prosecuted,
detained or subjected to any restriction of personal freedom by the Court
in respect of any act or omission that preceded the departure of that person
from the requested State.
3. Where
execution of a particular measure of assistance detailed in a request presented
under paragraph 1, is prohibited in the requested State on the basis of
an existing fundamental legal principle of general application, the requested
State shall promptly consult with the Court to try to resolve the matter.
In the consultations, consideration should be given to whether the assistance
can be rendered in another manner or subject to conditions. If after consultations
the matter cannot be resolved, the Court shall modify the request as necessary.
4. In
accordance with article 72, a State Party may deny a request for assistance,
in whole or in part, only if the request concerns the production of any
documents or disclosure of evidence which relates to its national security.
5. Before
denying a request for assistance under paragraph 1 (l), the requested State
shall consider whether the assistance can be provided subject to specified
conditions, or whether the assistance can be provided at a later date or
in an alternative manner, provided that if the Court or the Prosecutor
accepts the assistance subject to conditions, the Court or the Prosecutor
shall abide by them.
6. If
a request for assistance is denied, the requested State Party shall promptly
inform the Court or the Prosecutor of the reasons for such denial.
7. (a)
The Court may request the temporary transfer of a person in custody for
purposes of identification or for obtaining testimony or other assistance.
The person may be transferred if the following conditions are fulfilled:
(i) The person freely gives his or her informed
consent to the transfer; and
(ii) The requested State agrees to the transfer,
subject to such conditions as that State and the Court may agree.
(b) The person being transferred shall remain in
custody. When the purposes of the transfer have been fulfilled, the Court
shall return the person without delay to the requested State.
8. (a)
The Court shall ensure the confidentiality of documents and information,
except as required for the investigation and proceedings described in the
request.
(b) The requested State may, when necessary, transmit
documents or information to the Prosecutor on a confidential basis. The
Prosecutor may then use them solely for the purpose of generating new evidence.
(c) The requested State may, on its own motion
or at the request of the Prosecutor, subsequently consent to the disclosure
of such documents or information. They may then be used as evidence pursuant
to the provisions of Parts 5 and 6 and in accordance with the Rules of
Procedure and Evidence.
9. (a)
(i) In the event that a State Party receives competing
requests, other than for surrender or extradition, from the Court and from
another State pursuant to an international obligation, the State Party
shall endeavour, in consultation with the Court and the other State, to
meet both requests, if necessary by postponing or attaching conditions
to one or the other request.
(ii) Failing that, competing requests shall be
resolved in accordance with the principles established in article 90.
(b) Where, however, the request from the Court
concerns information, property or persons which are subject to the control
of a third State or an international organization by virtue of an international
agreement, the requested States shall so inform the Court and the Court
shall direct its request to the third State or international organization.
10. (a)
The Court may, upon request, cooperate with and provide assistance to a
State Party conducting an investigation into or trial in respect of conduct
which constitutes a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court or which
constitutes a serious crime under the national law of the requesting State.
(b) (i) The assistance
provided under subparagraph (a) shall include, inter alia:
a. The transmission of statements, documents or other
types of evidence obtained in the course of an investigation or a trial
conducted by the Court; and
b. The questioning of any person detained by order
of the Court;
(ii) In the case of assistance under subparagraph
(b) (i) a:
a. If the documents or other types of evidence
have been obtained with the assistance of a State, such transmission shall
require the consent of that State;
b. If the statements, documents or other types
of evidence have been provided by a witness or expert, such transmission
shall be subject to the provisions of article 68.
(c) The Court may, under the conditions set out
in this paragraph, grant a request for assistance under this paragraph
from a State which is not a Party to this Statute.
Article 94
Postponement of execution of a request in respect
of ongoing investigation or prosecution
1. If
the immediate execution of a request would interfere with an ongoing investigation
or prosecution of a case different from that to which the request relates,
the requested State may postpone the execution of the request for a period
of time agreed upon with the Court. However, the postponement shall be
no longer than is necessary to complete the relevant investigation or prosecution
in the requested State. Before making a decision to postpone, the requested
State should consider whether the assistance may be immediately provided
subject to certain conditions.
2. If
a decision to postpone is taken pursuant to paragraph 1, the Prosecutor
may, however, seek measures to preserve evidence, pursuant to article 93,
paragraph 1 (j).
Article 95
Postponement of execution of a request in
respect of an admissibility challenge
Where there is an admissibility challenge under consideration by the Court
pursuant to article 18 or 19, the requested State may postpone the execution
of a request under this Part pending a determination by the Court, unless
the Court has specifically ordered that the Prosecutor may pursue the collection
of such evidence pursuant to article 18 or 19.
Article 96
Contents of request for other forms of
assistance under article 93
1. A request
for other forms of assistance referred to in article 93 shall be made in
writing. In urgent cases, a request may be made by any medium capable of
delivering a written record, provided that the request shall be confirmed
through the channel provided for in article 87, paragraph 1 (a).
2. The
request shall, as applicable, contain or be supported by the following:
(a) A concise statement of the purpose of the request
and the assistance sought, including the legal basis and the grounds for
the request;
(b) As much detailed information as possible about
the location or identification of any person or place that must be found
or identified in order for the assistance sought to be provided;
(c) A concise statement of the essential facts
underlying the request;
(d) The reasons for and details of any procedure
or requirement to be followed;
(e) Such information as may be required under the
law of the requested State in order to execute the request; and
(f) Any other information relevant in order for
the assistance sought to be provided.
3. Upon
the request of the Court, a State Party shall consult with the Court, either
generally or with respect to a specific matter, regarding any requirements
under its national law that may apply under paragraph 2 (e). During the
consultations, the State Party shall advise the Court of the specific requirements
of its national law.
4. The
provisions of this article shall, where applicable, also apply in respect
of a request for assistance made to the Court.
Article 97
Consultations
Where a State Party receives a request under this Part in relation to which
it identifies problems which may impede or prevent the execution of the
request, that State shall consult with the Court without delay in order
to resolve the matter. Such problems may include, inter alia:
(a) Insufficient information to execute the request;
(b) In the case of a request for surrender, the
fact that despite best efforts, the person sought cannot be located or
that the investigation conducted has determined that the person in the
requested State is clearly not the person named in the warrant; or
(c) The fact that execution of the request in its
current form would require the requested State to breach a pre-existing
treaty obligation undertaken with respect to another State.
Article 98
Cooperation with respect to waiver of immunity
and consent to surrender
1. The
Court may not proceed with a request for surrender or assistance which
would require the requested State to act inconsistently with its obligations
under international law with respect to the State or diplomatic immunity
of a person or property of a third State, unless the Court can first obtain
the cooperation of that third State for the waiver of the immunity.
2. The
Court may not proceed with a request for surrender which would require
the requested State to act inconsistently with its obligations under international
agreements pursuant to which the consent of a sending State is required
to surrender a person of that State to the Court, unless the Court can
first obtain the cooperation of the sending State for the giving of consent
for the surrender.
Article 99
Execution of requests under articles 93 and 96
1. Requests
for assistance shall be executed in accordance with the relevant procedure
under the law of the requested State and, unless prohibited by such law,
in the manner specified in the request, including following any procedure
outlined therein or permitting persons specified in the request to be present
at and assist in the execution process.
2. In
the case of an urgent request, the documents or evidence produced in response
shall, at the request of the Court, be sent urgently.
3. Replies
from the requested State shall be transmitted in their original language
and form.
4. Without
prejudice to other articles in this Part, where it is necessary for the
successful execution of a request which can be executed without any compulsory
measures, including specifically the interview of or taking evidence from
a person on a voluntary basis, including doing so without the presence
of the authorities of the requested State Party if it is essential for
the request to be executed, and the examination without modification of
a public site or other public place, the Prosecutor may execute such request
directly on the territory of a State as follows:
(a) When the State Party requested is a State on
the territory of which the crime is alleged to have been committed, and
there has been a determination of admissibility pursuant to article 18
or 19, the Prosecutor may directly execute such request following all possible
consultations with the requested State Party;
(b) In other cases, the Prosecutor may execute
such request following consultations with the requested State Party and
subject to any reasonable conditions or concerns raised by that State Party.
Where the requested State Party identifies problems with the execution
of a request pursuant to this subparagraph it shall, without delay, consult
with the Court to resolve the matter.
5. Provisions
allowing a person heard or examined by the Court under article 72 to invoke
restrictions designed to prevent disclosure of confidential information
connected with national security shall also apply to the execution of requests
for assistance under this article.
Article 100
Costs
1. The
ordinary costs for execution of requests in the territory of the requested
State shall be borne by that State, except for the following, which shall
be borne by the Court:
(a) Costs associated with the travel and security
of witnesses and experts or the transfer under article 93 of persons in
custody;
(b) Costs of translation, interpretation and transcription;
(c) Travel and subsistence costs of the judges,
the Prosecutor, the Deputy Prosecutors, the Registrar, the Deputy Registrar
and staff of any organ of the Court;
(d) Costs of any expert opinion or report requested
by the Court;
(e) Costs associated with the transport of a person
being surrendered to the Court by a custodial State; and
(f) Following consultations, any extraordinary
costs that may result from the execution of a request.
2. The
provisions of paragraph 1 shall, as appropriate, apply to requests from
States Parties to the Court. In that case, the Court shall bear the ordinary
costs of execution.
Article 101
Rule of speciality
1. A person
surrendered to the Court under this Statute shall not be proceeded against,
punished or detained for any conduct committed prior to surrender, other
than the conduct or course of conduct which forms the basis of the crimes
for which that person has been surrendered.
2. The
Court may request a waiver of the requirements of paragraph 1 from the
State which surrendered the person to the Court and, if necessary, the
Court shall provide additional information in accordance with article 91.
States Parties shall have the authority to provide a waiver to the Court
and should endeavour to do so.
Article 102
Use of terms
For the purposes
of this Statute:
(a)
"surrender" means the delivering up of a person by a State to the Court,
pursuant to this Statute.
(b)
"extradition" means the delivering up of a person by one State to another
as provided by treaty, convention or national legislation.
PART 10. ENFORCEMENT
Article 103
Role of States in enforcement of
sentences of imprisonment
1. (a)
A sentence of imprisonment shall be served in a State designated by the
Court from a list of States which have indicated to the Court their willingness
to accept sentenced persons.
(b) At the time of declaring its willingness to
accept sentenced persons, a State may attach conditions to its acceptance
as agreed by the Court and in accordance with this Part.
(c) A State designated in a particular case shall
promptly inform the Court whether it accepts the Court's designation.
2. (a)
The State of enforcement shall notify the Court of any circumstances, including
the exercise of any conditions agreed under paragraph 1, which could materially
affect the terms or extent of the imprisonment. The Court shall be given
at least 45 days' notice of any such known or foreseeable circumstances.
During this period, the State of enforcement shall take no action that
might prejudice its obligations under article 110.
(b) Where the Court cannot agree to the circumstances
referred to in subparagraph (a), it shall notify the State of enforcement
and proceed in accordance with article 104, paragraph 1.
3. In
exercising its discretion to make a designation under paragraph 1, the
Court shall take into account the following:
(a) The principle that States Parties should share
the responsibility for enforcing sentences of imprisonment, in accordance
with principles of equitable distribution, as provided in the Rules of
Procedure and Evidence;
(b) The application of widely accepted international
treaty standards governing the treatment of prisoners;
(c) The views of the sentenced person;
(d) The nationality of the sentenced person;
(e) Such other factors regarding the circumstances
of the crime or the person sentenced, or the effective enforcement of the
sentence, as may be appropriate in designating the State of enforcement.
4. If
no State is designated under paragraph 1, the sentence of imprisonment
shall be served in a prison facility made available by the host State,
in accordance with the conditions set out in the headquarters agreement
referred to in article 3, paragraph 2. In such a case, the costs arising
out of the enforcement of a sentence of imprisonment shall be borne by
the Court.
Article 104
Change in designation of State of enforcement
1. The
Court may, at any time, decide to transfer a sentenced person to a prison
of another State.
2. A sentenced
person may, at any time, apply to the Court to be transferred from the
State of enforcement.
Article 105
Enforcement of the sentence
1. Subject
to conditions which a State may have specified in accordance with article
103, paragraph 1 (b), the sentence of imprisonment shall be binding on
the States Parties, which shall in no case modify it.
2. The
Court alone shall have the right to decide any application for appeal and
revision. The State of enforcement shall not impede the making of any such
application by a sentenced person.
Article 106
Supervision of enforcement of sentences and
conditions of imprisonment
1. The
enforcement of a sentence of imprisonment shall be subject to the supervision
of the Court and shall be consistent with widely accepted international
treaty standards governing treatment of prisoners.
2. The
conditions of imprisonment shall be governed by the law of the State of
enforcement and shall be consistent with widely accepted international
treaty standards governing treatment of prisoners; in no case shall such
conditions be more or less favourable than those available to prisoners
convicted of similar offences in the State of enforcement.
3. Communications
between a sentenced person and the Court shall be unimpeded and confidential.
Article 107
Transfer of the person upon completion of sentence
1. Following
completion of the sentence, a person who is not a national of the State
of enforcement may, in accordance with the law of the State of enforcement,
be transferred to a State which is obliged to receive him or her, or to
another State which agrees to receive him or her, taking into account any
wishes of the person to be transferred to that State, unless the State
of enforcement authorizes the person to remain in its territory.
2. If
no State bears the costs arising out of transferring the person to another
State pursuant to paragraph 1, such costs shall be borne by the Court.
3. Subject
to the provisions of article 108, the State of enforcement may also, in
accordance with its national law, extradite or otherwise surrender the
person to a State which has requested the extradition or surrender of the
person for purposes of trial or enforcement of a sentence.
Article 108
Limitation on the prosecution or punishment of other offences
1. A sentenced
person in the custody of the State of enforcement shall not be subject
to prosecution or punishment or to extradition to a third State for any
conduct engaged in prior to that person's delivery to the State of enforcement,
unless such prosecution, punishment or extradition has been approved by
the Court at the request of the State of enforcement.
2. The
Court shall decide the matter after having heard the views of the sentenced
person.
3. Paragraph
1 shall cease to apply if the sentenced person remains voluntarily for
more than 30 days in the territory of the State of enforcement after having
served the full sentence imposed by the Court, or returns to the territory
of that State after having left it.
Article 109
Enforcement of fines and forfeiture measures
1. States
Parties shall give effect to fines or forfeitures ordered by the Court
under Part 7, without prejudice to the rights of bona fide third parties,
and in accordance with the procedure of their national law.
2. If
a State Party is unable to give effect to an order for forfeiture, it shall
take measures to recover the value of the proceeds, property or assets
ordered by the Court to be forfeited, without prejudice to the rights of
bona fide third parties.
3. Property,
or the proceeds of the sale of real property or, where appropriate, the
sale of other property, which is obtained by a State Party as a result
of its enforcement of a judgement of the Court shall be transferred to
the Court.
Article 110
Review by the Court concerning reduction of sentence
1. The
State of enforcement shall not release the person before expiry of the
sentence pronounced by the Court.
2. The
Court alone shall have the right to decide any reduction of sentence, and
shall rule on the matter after having heard the person.
3. When
the person has served two thirds of the sentence, or 25 years in the case
of life imprisonment, the Court shall review the sentence to determine
whether it should be reduced. Such a review shall not be conducted before
that time.
4. In
its review under paragraph 3, the Court may reduce the sentence if it finds
that one or more of the following factors are present:
(a) The early and continuing willingness of the
person to cooperate with the Court in its investigations and prosecutions;
(b) The voluntary assistance of the person in enabling
the enforcement of the judgements and orders of the Court in other cases,
and in particular providing assistance in locating assets subject to orders
of fine, forfeiture or reparation which may be used for the benefit of
victims; or
(c) Other factors establishing a clear and significant
change of circumstances sufficient to justify the reduction of sentence,
as provided in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
5. If
the Court determines in its initial review under paragraph 3 that it is
not appropriate to reduce the sentence, it shall thereafter review the
question of reduction of sentence at such intervals and applying such criteria
as provided for in the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
Article 111
Escape
If a convicted person escapes from custody and flees the State of enforcement,
that State may, after consultation with the Court, request the person's
surrender from the State in which the person is located pursuant to existing
bilateral or multilateral arrangements, or may request that the Court seek
the person's surrender, in accordance with Part 9. It may direct that the
person be delivered to the State in which he or she was serving the sentence
or to another State designated by the Court.
PART 11. ASSEMBLY OF STATES PARTIES
Article 112
Assembly of States Parties
1. An
Assembly of States Parties to this Statute is hereby established. Each
State Party shall have one representative in the Assembly who may be accompanied
by alternates and advisers. Other States which have signed this Statute
or the Final Act may be observers in the Assembly.
2. The
Assembly shall:
(a) Consider and adopt, as appropriate, recommendations
of the Preparatory Commission;
(b) Provide management oversight to the Presidency,
the Prosecutor and the Registrar regarding the administration of the Court;
(c) Consider the reports and activities of the
Bureau established under paragraph 3 and take appropriate action in regard
thereto;
(d) Consider and decide the budget for the Court;
(e) Decide whether to alter, in accordance with
article 36, the number of judges;
(f) Consider pursuant to article 87, paragraphs
5 and 7, any question relating to non-cooperation;
(g) Perform any other function consistent with
this Statute or the Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
3.
(a) The Assembly shall have a Bureau consisting
of a President, two Vice-Presidents and 18 members elected by the Assembly
for three-year terms.
(b) The Bureau shall have a representative character,
taking into account, in particular, equitable geographical distribution
and the adequate representation of the principal legal systems of the world.
(c) The Bureau shall meet as often as necessary,
but at least once a year. It shall assist the Assembly in the discharge
of its responsibilities.
4. The
Assembly may establish such subsidiary bodies as may be necessary, including
an independent oversight mechanism for inspection, evaluation and investigation
of the Court, in order to enhance its efficiency and economy.
5. The
President of the Court, the Prosecutor and the Registrar or their representatives
may participate, as appropriate, in meetings of the Assembly and of the
Bureau.
6. The
Assembly shall meet at the seat of the Court or at the Headquarters of
the United Nations once a year and, when circumstances so require, hold
special sessions. Except as otherwise specified in this Statute, special
sessions shall be convened by the Bureau on its own initiative or at the
request of one third of the States Parties.
7. Each
State Party shall have one vote. Every effort shall be made to reach decisions
by consensus in the Assembly and in the Bureau. If consensus cannot be
reached, except as otherwise provided in the Statute:
(a) Decisions on matters of substance must be approved
by a two-thirds majority of those present and voting provided that an absolute
majority of States Parties constitutes the quorum for voting;
(b) Decisions on matters of procedure shall be
taken by a simple majority of States Parties present and voting.
8. A State
Party which is in arrears in the payment of its financial contributions
towards the costs of the Court shall have no vote in the Assembly and in
the Bureau if the amount of its arrears equals or exceeds the amount of
the contributions due from it for the preceding two full years. The Assembly
may, nevertheless, permit such a State Party to vote in the Assembly and
in the Bureau if it is satisfied that the failure to pay is due to conditions
beyond the control of the State Party.
9. The
Assembly shall adopt its own rules of procedure.
10. The
official and working languages of the Assembly shall be those of the General
Assembly of the United Nations.
PART 12. FINANCING
Article 113
Financial Regulations
Except as otherwise specifically provided, all financial matters related
to the Court and the meetings of the Assembly of States Parties, including
its Bureau and subsidiary bodies, shall be governed by this Statute and
the Financial Regulations and Rules adopted by the Assembly of States Parties.
Article 114
Payment of expenses
Expenses of the Court and the Assembly of States Parties, including its
Bureau and subsidiary bodies, shall be paid from the funds of the Court.
Article 115
Funds of the Court and of the Assembly of States Parties
The expenses of the Court and the Assembly of States Parties, including
its Bureau and subsidiary bodies, as provided for in the budget decided
by the Assembly of States Parties, shall be provided by the following sources:
(a) Assessed contributions made by States Parties;
(b) Funds provided by the United Nations, subject
to the approval of the General Assembly, in particular in relation to the
expenses incurred due to referrals by the Security Council.
Article 116
Voluntary contributions
Without prejudice to article 115, the Court may receive and utilize, as
additional funds, voluntary contributions from Governments, international
organizations, individuals, corporations and other entities, in accordance
with relevant criteria adopted by the Assembly of States Parties.
Article 117
Assessment of contributions
The contributions of States Parties shall be assessed in accordance with
an agreed scale of assessment, based on the scale adopted by the United
Nations for its regular budget and adjusted in accordance with the principles
on which that scale is based.
Article 118
Annual audit
The records, books and accounts of the Court, including its annual financial
statements, shall be audited annually by an independent auditor.
PART 13. FINAL CLAUSES
Article 119
Settlement of disputes
1. Any
dispute concerning the judicial functions of the Court shall be settled
by the decision of the Court.
2. Any
other dispute between two or more States Parties relating to the interpretation
or application of this Statute which is not settled through negotiations
within three months of their commencement shall be referred to the Assembly
of States Parties. The Assembly may itself seek to settle the dispute or
may make recommendations on further means of settlement of the dispute,
including referral to the International Court of Justice in conformity
with the Statute of that Court.
Article 120
Reservations
No reservations may be made to this Statute.
Article 121
Amendments
1. After
the expiry of seven years from the entry into force of this Statute, any
State Party may propose amendments thereto. The text of any proposed amendment
shall be submitted to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, who
shall promptly circulate it to all States Parties.
2. No
sooner than three months from the date of notification, the Assembly of
States Parties, at its next meeting, shall, by a majority of those present
and voting, decide whether to take up the proposal. The Assembly may deal
with the proposal directly or convene a Review Conference if the issue
involved so warrants.
3. The
adoption of an amendment at a meeting of the Assembly of States Parties
or at a Review Conference on which consensus cannot be reached shall require
a two-thirds majority of States Parties.
4. Except
as provided in paragraph 5, an amendment shall enter into force for all
States Parties one year after instruments of ratification or acceptance
have been deposited with the Secretary-General of the United Nations by
seven-eighths of them.
5. Any
amendment to articles 5, 6, 7 and 8 of this Statute shall enter into force
for those States Parties which have accepted the amendment one year after
the deposit of their instruments of ratification or acceptance. In respect
of a State Party which has not accepted the amendment, the Court shall
not exercise its jurisdiction regarding a crime covered by the amendment
when committed by that State Party's nationals or on its territory.
6. If
an amendment has been accepted by seven-eighths of States Parties in accordance
with paragraph 4, any State Party which has not accepted the amendment
may withdraw from this Statute with immediate effect, notwithstanding article
127, paragraph 1, but subject to article 127, paragraph 2, by giving notice
no later than one year after the entry into force of such amendment.
7. The
Secretary-General of the United Nations shall circulate to all States Parties
any amendment adopted at a meeting of the Assembly of States Parties or
at a Review Conference.
Article 122
Amendments to provisions of an institutional nature
1. Amendments
to provisions of this Statute which are of an exclusively institutional
nature, namely, article 35, article 36, paragraphs 8 and 9, article 37,
article 38, article 39, paragraphs 1 (first two sentences), 2 and 4, article
42, paragraphs 4 to 9, article 43, paragraphs 2 and 3, and articles 44,
46, 47 and 49, may be proposed at any time, notwithstanding article 121,
paragraph 1, by any State Party. The text of any proposed amendment shall
be submitted to the Secretary-General of the United Nations or such other
person designated by the Assembly of States Parties who shall promptly
circulate it to all States Parties and to others participating in the Assembly.
2. Amendments
under this article on which consensus cannot be reached shall be adopted
by the Assembly of States Parties or by a Review Conference, by a two-thirds
majority of States Parties. Such amendments shall enter into force for
all States Parties six months after their adoption by the Assembly or,
as the case may be, by the Conference.
Article 123
Review of the Statute
1. Seven
years after the entry into force of this Statute the Secretary-General
of the United Nations shall convene a Review Conference to consider any
amendments to this Statute. Such review may include, but is not limited
to, the list of crimes contained in article 5. The Conference shall be
open to those participating in the Assembly of States Parties and on the
same conditions.
2. At
any time thereafter, at the request of a State Party and for the purposes
set out in paragraph 1, the Secretary-General of the United Nations shall,
upon approval by a majority of States Parties, convene a Review Conference.
3. The
provisions of article 121, paragraphs 3 to 7, shall apply to the adoption
and entry into force of any amendment to the Statute considered at a Review
Conference.
Article 124
Transitional Provision
Notwithstanding article 12, paragraphs 1 and 2, a State, on becoming a
party to this Statute, may declare that, for a period of seven years after
the entry into force of this Statute for the State concerned, it does not
accept the jurisdiction of the Court with respect to the category of crimes
referred to in article 8 when a crime is alleged to have been committed
by its nationals or on its territory. A declaration under this article
may be withdrawn at any time. The provisions of this article shall be reviewed
at the Review Conference convened in accordance with article 123, paragraph
1.
Article 125
Signature, ratification, acceptance, approval or accession
1. This
Statute shall be open for signature by all States in Rome, at the headquarters
of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, on 17 July
1998. Thereafter, it shall remain open for signature in Rome at the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs of Italy until 17 October 1998. After that date, the
Statute shall remain open for signature in New York, at United Nations
Headquarters, until 31 December 2000.
2. This
Statute is subject to ratification, acceptance or approval by signatory
States. Instruments of ratification, acceptance or approval shall be deposited
with the Secretary-General of the United Nations.
3. This
Statute shall be open to accession by all States. Instruments of accession
shall
be deposited with the Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Article 126
Entry into force
1. This
Statute shall enter into force on the first day of the month after the
60th day following the date of the deposit of the 60th instrument of ratification,
acceptance, approval or accession with the Secretary-General of the United
Nations.
2. For
each State ratifying, accepting, approving or acceding to this Statute
after the deposit of the 60th instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval
or accession, the Statute shall enter into force on the first day of the
month after the 60th day following the deposit by such State of its instrument
of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession.
Article 127
Withdrawal
1. A State
Party may, by written notification addressed to the Secretary-General of
the United Nations, withdraw from this Statute. The withdrawal shall take
effect one year after the date of receipt of the notification, unless the
notification specifies a later date.
2. A State
shall not be discharged, by reason of its withdrawal, from the obligations
arising from this Statute while it was a Party to the Statute, including
any financial obligations which may have accrued. Its withdrawal shall
not affect any cooperation with the Court in connection with criminal investigations
and proceedings in relation to which the withdrawing State had a duty to
cooperate and which were commenced prior to the date on which the withdrawal
became effective, nor shall it prejudice in any way the continued consideration
of any matter which was already under consideration by the Court prior
to the date on which the withdrawal became effective.
Article 128
Authentic texts
The original of this Statute, of which the Arabic, Chinese, English, French,
Russian and Spanish texts are equally authentic, shall be deposited with
the Secretary-General of the United Nations, who shall send certified copies
thereof to all States.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being duly authorized thereto by their
respective Governments, have signed this Statute.
DONE at Rome, this 17th day of July 1998.