What is the International Court of Justice?

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is an international tribunal that is the primary judicial branch of the United Nations (UN). The Court is based in The Hague, Netherlands, and its fifteen judges are elected by the UN General Assembly and Security Council for a term of nine years. The ICJ adjudicates disputes between states and provides advisory opinions on legal matters referred to it by authorized UN organs and specialized agencies. In general, the ICJ has jurisdiction to settle any legal dispute between states submitted to it. It has the power to hear cases concerning a wide range of issues such as human rights, maritime law, international territorial boundaries, war crimes, and the law of the sea. Because the ICJ is an international court, its decisions are binding on the parties to any dispute. Despite having its judicial decisions binding on members of the UN, it does not have any power to enforce those decisions. While the ICJ has the power to declare a decision legally binding, it does not have the power to ensure that a state will actually uphold what it decides. That is why most states follow the procedures of the court because they respect the legal process, not because they are mandated to do so. In California, the International Court of Justice plays an important role in upholding human rights by adjudicating disputes between states involving human rights violations. It also provides advisory opinions to international organizations such as the UN about human rights matters. The ICJ serves as a symbol of justice and fairness, promoting respect for international law and human rights.

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What is the International Court of Justice?

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