Statement by the International Criminal Court on the occasion of International Women’s Day

On the occasion of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2014, the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or the “Court”) wishes to express its full support for the 2014 United Nations theme for International Women’s Day: “Equality for women is progress for all”. We must all work together to unlock the potential of women, empowering them to be true agents of change playing fundamental roles at all levels of society.

By investigating and, where warranted, prosecuting sexual and gender based crimes when national judicial systems are unable or unwilling to do so, the ICC hopes to contribute to the prevention and deterrence of such crimes. These proceedings can also highlight the horrendous nature of sexual and gender based crimes, as well as their impact on victims, their families and communities, and give a voice to victims.

Along with this specific role, the Court is also a pioneer among international organisations when it comes to the promotion of gender equality in an international work environment. The ICC is the first, and thus far the only, major international judicial institution with the majority of its judges being female. Women play pivotal roles at the ICC. The First Vice-President of the Court, the Prosecutor, and the President of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute are all women, as are nearly half of ICC staff. The ICC is proud of these gains and has benefited immensely from the important contribution of its female leaders and women in its workforce. To further build on this trajectory, we will continue to encourage female applicants from all parts of the world to seek professional opportunities at the ICC.