Ukraine has officially become the 125th member state of the International Criminal Court (ICC), joining the Rome Statute community, Ukrainian state media outlet Ukrinform reported on January 1.
Ukraine will hold the same rights as other member states, including participation in elections, proposing amendments, and shaping the court’s future.
The Ukrainian flag now stands among the flags of ICC member states at the court’s headquarters.
“Ukraine officially becomes the 125th state party to the ICC on January 1, 2025. This means it is now a full participant in this international treaty with all the associated rights and obligations,” ICC spokesperson Fadi El Abdallah said.
“The most important of these rights include voting on the court’s budget, adopting amendments to the Rome Statute, and electing judges, the next prosecutor, and deputies. These contributions allow Ukraine to help shape the future of international criminal law,” El Abdallah added.
El Abdallah expressed hope that Ukraine’s decision would inspire others to join the ICC.
“We hope this new ratification will encourage others to follow Ukraine’s example. It reflects trust in the ICC and underscores a global commitment to ending impunity and building a more just world,” he added.
When asked about the possibility of Ukraine nominating a judge, El Abdallah confirmed that member states could propose candidates, but selection would depend on Assembly votes.
“ICC judges must meet specific requirements, such as expertise in international or criminal law and qualifications for high judicial office in their home country. Elections for six judges are held every three years,” he noted, encouraging Ukraine to actively participate and nominate candidates.
Proficiency in one of the ICC’s official working languages, English or French, is mandatory for judges, while fluency in both is an advantage.
El Abdallah emphasized that the ICC holds individuals, not states, accountable. He noted that only the prosecutor has the authority to initiate cases, based on available evidence and jurisdiction.
“We are aware of ongoing investigations into Ukraine’s situation, initiated after Ukraine recognized the ICC’s jurisdiction. Ratifying the Rome Statute does not require starting new investigations,” he emphasized.
With full membership, Ukraine assumes new responsibilities, including financial contributions to the ICC budget.
“The ICC budget is set by the Assembly of States Parties, which includes 125 members, now including Ukraine. The budget is approximately €190 million, distributed proportionally based on each country’s economic size and population. Major contributors include Japan and Germany,” El Abdallah explained. Ukraine’s contribution will follow the same formula.
Earlier, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed the law on amendments to the Criminal and Criminal Procedure Codes of Ukraine in connection with the ratification of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and its amendments.
