What is the International Court of Justice (ICJ)?

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. It is located in The Hague, Netherlands, and was established in 1945 to settle legal disputes between states and give advisory opinions on international legal issues. It has a two-fold role: to adjudicate disputes between states, and to offer advice on legal questions that other organs of the United Nations may refer to it. The ICJ is composed of 15 judges who are elected by the General Assembly and Security Council of the United Nations for terms of nine years. Decisions of the ICJ are binding on all states that have accepted its jurisdiction, and its rulings are final and without appeal. The jurisdiction of the Court is voluntary and states have the right to choose whether to participate in any case or not. States can bring disputes to the ICJ by filing an application or requesting an advisory opinion. In cases with several parties involved, consent of all parties is required before the Court will consider the dispute. The ICJ can also pass judgments on disputes between the United Nations and Member States. The ICJ is the primary source of international law in North Carolina and it has the authority to settle disputes between states and interpret international laws. Its rulings and judgments are binding and cannot be appealed. It is the most important international tribunal and its decisions have a significant impact on international relations.

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What is the International Court of Justice (ICJ)?

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