While the International Criminal Court (ICC) has jurisdiction over individuals accused of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression, its authority is primarily over states that are parties to the Rome Statute (signatories). If a finding is made against the head of state of a non-signatory country, the obligations of signatory states are somewhat complex and nuanced:
- Cooperation with the ICC:
Arrest and Surrender: If the accused head of state enters the territory of a signatory state, they are obligated to arrest and surrender the individual to the ICC, regardless of their official status. This is a key principle of the Rome Statute, ensuring that no one is above the law.
There are 124 countries that are signatories. The one's that aren't are ;
United States: The U.S. signed the Rome Statute in 2000 but later unsigned it in 2002.
China: China has neither signed nor ratified the Rome Statute.
Russia: Russia signed the Rome Statute in 2000 but never ratified it. In 2016, it withdrew its signature.
India: India has neither signed nor ratified the Rome Statute.
Israel: Israel signed the Rome Statute in 2000 but never ratified it.
Iran: Iran has neither signed nor ratified the Rome Statute.
Turkey: Turkey has neither signed nor ratified the Rome Statute.
Ukraine: Ukraine signed the Rome Statute in 2000 but has not yet ratified it.