International Criminal Court wins EU’s top human rights prize in defiance of Trump’s sanctions

The ICC has been awarded the EU's Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, acknowledging its efforts amid significant challenges. ICC president Tomoko Akane expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the need for support to maintain the court's independence. The award comes as the ICC faces sanctions from the US, particularly after issuing an arrest warrant for Israeli PM Netanyahu. EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen affirmed Europe's backing of the ICC's mission for justice. The nomination was initiated by French MEP Chloé Ridel for the Socialists & Democrats group.