Eight Nations Oppose Planned US Sanctions Against ICC

Canada and seven partner nations have condemned planned US sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), warning that the measures could significantly disrupt the court's operations and affect its personnel and their families. In a joint statement issued in Ottawa on October 9, 2026, the foreign ministers reaffirmed their support for the court's mandate to pursue justice for the most serious international crimes.

The statement was issued by Canada, Denmark, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom through Global Affairs Canada. The eight countries said they opposed the announced sanctions and supported the ICC's preparations to maintain its operations if the measures take effect.

The ministers emphasized that the court's work includes bringing individuals accused of the gravest international crimes to justice and supporting victims. They warned that implementing the sanctions would have a substantial impact on the institution and the people working for it.

The ministers described their countries as committed supporters of the ICC and expressed strong disapproval of the planned US measures.

"As staunch supporters of the ICC, we regret and strongly disapprove of the announcement of sanctions that the United States is preparing to impose on the Court," the foreign ministers said in their joint statement.

The eight governments also welcomed steps taken by the court to prepare for potential sanctions, emphasizing the importance of allowing it to continue fulfilling its responsibilities under the Rome Statute, the treaty governing the ICC.

"We welcome the work undertaken by the Court to prepare for such measures, so that it can continue to fulfill its mandate under the Rome Statute, and we underscore our unwavering support to enable it to do so," the ministers said.

The statement highlighted concerns about the potential consequences for court employees and their families, alongside the broader implications for the ICC's ability to carry out its judicial responsibilities.

"Nevertheless, if implemented, these sanctions will have a considerable impact on the work of the Court, its dedicated staff and their families. These staff members work every day to bring to justice those accused of the most serious international crimes and to support their victims," the foreign ministers said.

The countries also pledged to continue engaging with states that are not parties to the ICC, signaling their intention to pursue diplomatic dialogue while defending the international rules-based system and accountability for serious crimes.

"We remain united in our support for the ICC and determined to engage in constructive and inclusive dialogue with non-States Parties as we prepare for the Assembly of States Parties to be held in December 2026. We will continue to work together to support the essential work of the Court, uphold the international rules-based system and advance accountability," the ministers said.

The Assembly of States Parties, scheduled for December 2026, is the next event identified in the statement as part of the countries' continued engagement on the court's work and international accountability.