Eight Nations Reaffirm Support for ICC Amid US Sanctions

Eight countries have reaffirmed their support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and warned that planned US sanctions could significantly disrupt its operations, affect its staff and burden their families. In a joint statement published by the UK government on October 9, 2026, the foreign ministers of Canada, Denmark, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands and the UK opposed the measures and pledged to continue supporting the court's international justice mandate.

The eight governments, all States Parties to the Rome Statute, emphasized the importance of protecting the ICC's independence, impartiality and integrity. Their statement also acknowledged the court's preparations to maintain its work if the US measures take effect.

The ministers said the sanctions could affect personnel responsible for pursuing individuals accused of the most serious international crimes and assisting victims. They did not specify the financial value of the potential impact or identify particular staff members who could be affected.

The statement expressed strong disagreement with Washington's decision to impose sanctions directly on the court. The governments nevertheless stressed that they remain committed to dialogue with countries that are not parties to the Rome Statute.

The ministers reaffirmed their position on the ICC's institutional independence and the principles underpinning its work.

"We, the undersigned States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), reaffirm our continued and unwavering support for the independence, impartiality, and integrity of the ICC."

The governments also acknowledged preparations undertaken by the court to continue fulfilling its mandate despite the announced measures. They said their support would remain in place as the international community considers the implications of the sanctions.

"As committed supporters of the ICC we regret and strongly disagree with the announcement of sanctions to be imposed upon the Court by the United States."

The ministers said the court had taken steps to prepare for the potential restrictions, while emphasizing that the measures could still have serious consequences for its work and personnel.

"We note with appreciation the work undertaken by the Court to prepare for such measures so that the Court can continue to fulfil its mandate under the Rome Statute and we underline our unwavering support in enabling the Court in doing so."

The statement highlighted the human impact of the proposed sanctions, pointing to the work carried out by ICC personnel in pursuing accountability for grave international crimes and supporting victims.

"Nevertheless, if put into effect, these sanctions will have a significant impact on the Court’s work, its dedicated staff and their families. They work every day to bring those accused of the most serious international crimes to justice and to support their victims."

The eight countries said they would continue coordinating their response while pursuing engagement with states outside the court's founding treaty. Their next major diplomatic milestone is the Assembly of States Parties scheduled for December 2026.

"We remain both united in our support for the ICC and committed to engaging in constructive and inclusive dialogue with non-States Parties as we prepare for the Assembly of States Parties in December 2026. We will continue to work together to support the Court’s vital work, uphold the rules-based international system, and advance accountability."