European Parliament awards ICC its 2026 Sakharov Prize amid US sanctions
The European Parliament has awarded the International Criminal Court and its officials the 2026 Sakharov Prize, recognising its work upholding international law, President Roberta Metsola said. The decision comes less than two weeks after Washington imposed sanctions on the court; ICC President Tomoko Akane said the award underscored the need for international support as it faces what she called unprecedented challenges.
Bottom line — The US sanctions are due to take effect in six months, while Brussels is considering a blocking statute to shield the ICC.
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The ICC said the sanctions risk obstructing its judicial mandate and its ability to work independently and impartially.
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According to AFP, the ICC was one of three finalists, alongside Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu and Iranian sisters Taraneh and Romina Rahimi.
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The Sakharov Prize has been awarded annually since 1988 to people or organisations defending human rights and freedoms.
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EU Reporter says the Socialists and Democrats, who nominated the ICC, renewed their call for the European Commission to activate the EU blocking statute.
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The award ceremony is scheduled for December in Strasbourg.