What is the role of the Trust Fund for Victims?

The Rome Statute created two independent institutions: the International Criminal Court and the Trust Fund for Victims.

While it is impossible to fully undo the harm caused by genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression, it is possible to help survivors, in particular, the most vulnerable among them, rebuild their lives and regain their dignity and status as fully-functioning members of their societies.

The Trust Fund for Victims advocates for victims and mobilises individuals, institutions with resources, and the goodwill of those in power for the benefit of victims and their communities. It funds or sets up innovative projects to meet victims’ physical, material, or psychological needs. It may also directly undertake activities as and when requested by the Court.

The Trust Fund for Victims can act for the benefit of victims of crimes, regardless of whether there is a conviction by the ICC. It cooperates with the Court to avoid any interference with ongoing legal proceedings.