World Day for International Justice 2021: Theme, history and significance

World Day for International justice 2021: The International Justice Day is celebrated by honouring individuals working to advocate the fundamental human rights of victims affected by criminal acts.

World Day for International Justice is observed across the globe on July 17 every year to mark an emerging modern system of justice against international criminal acts. The reason behind observing such an occasion on this date is that the International Criminal Court (ICC) was formally established on July 17, following the adoption of the Rome Statute.

The entrance of the International Criminal Court (ICC) is seen in The Hague, Netherlands. (REUTERS/Jerry Lampen/File Photo)

The Day of International Criminal Justice is celebrated by honouring individuals working to advocate the fundamental human rights of victims affected by criminal acts. People also come together around the world to host events promoting international criminal justice and support for the ICC.

World Day for International Justice: History and background

World Day for International Justice is marked around the globe on July 17. The date has a special significance. According to the International Criminal Court, it was decided by the Assembly of State Parties to observe July 17 as the Day of International Criminal Justice. The decision was taken at the Review Conference of the Rome Statute held in Uganda's Kampala town back on June 1, 2010.

World Day for International Justice: Theme

This year's theme for the Day of International Criminal Justice is "social justice in the digital economy", a timely topic for a modern age where criminals are increasingly relying on advanced internet-based means instead of traditional criminal tactics.

World Day for International Justice: Importance

Technological developments over the last decade have helped human beings navigate the Covid-19 landscape. Employees are being able to work from home because of what the UN refers to as “digital labour platforms," providing "income-generating possibilities and advantages from flexible work arrangements."

However, there is also the added risk of criminal acts resorting to digital means, even more so when the streets continue to be under strict vigil over pandemic-appropriate behaviour. The real threat may be remote, experts say, exacerbating the need to spread awareness over criminal justice on a digital platform.

What is the International Criminal Court?

The International Criminal Court, or ICC, investigates and, where warranted, tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression. As a court of last resort, it seeks to complement, not replace, national courts.

The International Criminal Court is governed by the international treaty called the Rome Statute. It is also the world's first permanent international criminal court.