Armenia Formally Joins International Criminal Court; ICC Rome Statute Officially Enters into Force

Armenia has officially become a member of the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC Rome Statute officially entered into force for Armenia on February 1, marking a crucial step in the nation's commitment to global accountability.

Yeghishe Kirakosyan, Armenia's official representative for international legal matters, conveyed the news to AFP, emphasizing the profound impact this decision would have on preventing war crimes and crimes against humanity within Armenia's borders.

"Joining the ICC gives Armenia serious tools to prevent war crimes and crimes against humanity on its territory," Kirakosyan stated, highlighting the importance of this move in ensuring a more just and accountable society. He specifically noted the significance in relation to neighboring Azerbaijan, suggesting that this step holds implications for promoting peace and justice in the region. “First of all, this concerns Azerbaijan,” he noted.

Armenia initially signed the Rome Statute in 1999 but refrained from ratifying it, citing constitutional contradictions. However, last March, the constitutional court declared that these obstacles had been resolved following the adoption of a new constitution in 2015. This paved the way for Armenia to formally deposit its instrument of ratification of the Rome Statute in November, solidifying its commitment to the principles and goals of the ICC.