The European Parliament has announced that the 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought will be jointly awarded to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its officials.
The European Parliament reported on Thursday, October 22, that the award would be presented in recognition of the ICC’s role in upholding international law and justice.
Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, said while announcing the winner that the European Union is founded on respect for multilateralism and international institutions.
The ICC investigates serious crimes, including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity, and, where necessary, prosecutes individuals accused of committing these crimes.
With the aim of ending impunity, the court seeks to hold those responsible for such crimes accountable and prevent them from recurring.
The European Parliament has also expressed concern over growing threats and sanctions against the ICC, particularly those coming from the United States.
