The International Criminal Court (ICC) and its officials have been awarded the European Union’s 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, in a show of support for international justice as the tribunal faces mounting pressure from the United States.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced the decision on Thursday in Strasbourg, France, praising the court’s efforts to uphold international law and justice.
“The EU is built on respect for multilateralism and international institutions,” Metsola said.
“And this prize recognises the important work of the court in upholding international law and justice.” She added.
The announcement comes less than two weeks after US President Donald Trump announced further sanctions against the court, intensifying a dispute over its investigations involving the United States and its allies, particularly Israel.
The Hague-based tribunal has faced growing opposition from Washington since issuing arrest warrants in November 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defence minister, Yoav Gallant, over alleged crimes committed during the Gaza conflict.
The warrants are not convictions, and the allegations remain subject to judicial proceedings.
ICC President Tomoko Akane welcomed the European Parliament’s decision, describing it as significant at a time when the court faces unprecedented challenges.
She stressed the importance of continued international cooperation to ensure that the institution can carry out its responsibilities independently and impartially, particularly in serving victims of serious international crimes.
“There is no peace without justice and no security without law,” Akane said.
The award represents another expression of international support for the court this month, following the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to former ICC judge Navi Pillay.
The recognitions come as the tribunal confronts measures by the Trump administration that could complicate its access to financial services and other resources needed for its operations.
The United States has argued that the ICC has exceeded its authority by pursuing cases involving American nationals and officials from allied countries without their consent. The court, however, operates under the Rome Statute, the treaty establishing its jurisdiction and mandate.
The latest award also highlights differences between Washington and European institutions over the role of international courts in addressing alleged war crimes and other serious violations of international law.
The Sakharov Prize, named after Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov, has been awarded annually since 1988 to individuals and organisations recognised for defending human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The ICC was selected from three finalists. The other nominees were Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu and Iranian sisters Taraneh and Romina Rahimi, who were nominated in recognition of those facing persecution under Iran’s authorities.
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The European Parliament is scheduled to hold the award ceremony in Strasbourg on December 16.
