The International Criminal Court receives the Sakharov Prize

The International Criminal Court (ICC) and its officials will receive the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought from the European Parliament in 2026. This recognition highlights the ICC's vital role in combating impunity and upholding international law. The award ceremony will take place in December, following the selection process that occurs each September. The Sakharov Prize, established in 1988, honors individuals who make significant sacrifices for human rights and democracy. The ICC emphasized the importance of this award amid unprecedented challenges, including sanctions aimed at undermining its mandate. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, praised the ICC's independence and the necessity of international cooperation in its mission.