The International Court of Justice (ICJ), also known as the World Court, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN). Here are detailed insights into its establishment, structure, function, and operations:
Establishment and History
Structure
- The ICJ consists of 15 judges elected for nine-year terms by the United Nations General Assembly and the United Nations Security Council.
- The judges are chosen from among persons of high moral character who possess the qualifications required in their respective countries for appointment to the highest judicial offices or are jurists of recognized competence in international law.
- No two judges may be nationals of the same state, ensuring representation from different countries.
Functions and Jurisdiction
- Contentious Cases: The ICJ decides disputes between states. Only states may be parties in contentious cases. A state must recognize the ICJ's jurisdiction either by becoming a party to the Statute of the International Court of Justice or by agreeing to submit a particular dispute to the court.
- Advisory Opinions: The court can give advisory opinions on legal questions at the request of the UN's authorized organs and specialized agencies.
- The ICJ does not have the power to enforce its decisions, relying instead on the voluntary compliance of states or the political influence of the UN.
Notable Cases and Impact
- The ICJ has handled numerous significant cases, such as the Nicaragua v. United States (1986), where the court found the US had breached international law by supporting the Contras in Nicaragua.
- Other notable cases include disputes over maritime boundaries, sovereignty over territories, and the legality of nuclear weapons.
External Links for Further Reading
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