The Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre (QICDRC) successfully hosted its panel discussion, ‘Evolving Jurisdictions of the ICC and ICJ’, at the 22nd Doha Forum, held on 7–8 December 2024.
The session brought together a distinguished group of legal experts to discuss the crucial roles of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in addressing ongoing global conflicts, with a focus on the cases of Palestine and Israel, Sudan, and other current global crises.
Aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, the discussion explored the ICC and ICJ’s responses to war crimes, territorial disputes, and breaches of international humanitarian law in regions experiencing acute conflict. Specific attention was given to how international courts navigate the legal challenges surrounding the ongoing conflicts in Palestine and Israel, as well as Sudan.
The panellists highlighted the courts’ jurisdictional limitations and the need for global cooperation to ensure justice and accountability.
The panel was chaired by Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd, President of QICDRC and former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales. Panellists included:
● Sir Adrian Fulford, former Judge of the ICC who conducted its first-ever trial, former Vice President of the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division), and advisor to ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan KC.
● Victoria Prentis KC, former Attorney General of England and Wales.
● Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh KC, Barrister specialising in public international law.
● Prof. Sienho Yee, Professor of International Law and Director, Chinese Institute of International Law at China Foreign Affairs University
In his opening remarks, Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd emphasised the relevance of the ICC and ICJ in addressing these complex and critical cases. He said: “The ICC and ICJ are indispensable in upholding the principles of justice, especially in cases like Palestine and Israel and Sudan, where the need for accountability and the rule of law are paramount. This panel provided a valuable platform to explore how these institutions can respond effectively to such crises.”
Reflecting on the discussion, Sir Adrian Fulford added: “The conflicts in Palestine and Israel, as well as Sudan, highlight the necessity for robust international legal mechanisms. This session reinforced the importance of adapting these systems to address evolving global challenges and ensure justice is served.”
QICDRC’s participation at the Doha Forum 2024 underscores its dedication to advancing the rule of law and fostering global discussions on justice and governance. The event was a platform for meaningful engagement, addressing how the ICC and ICJ can strengthen their role in resolving some of the world’s most pressing conflicts.
