International Court of Justice: The World's Highest Tribunal

About the International Court of Justice

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), commonly known as the World Court, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN). Established in June 1945 under the UN Charter, the ICJ is the only international court with general jurisdiction to adjudicate disputes between states.

Functions and Jurisdiction

The ICJ's primary function is to resolve legal disputes between nations and provide advisory opinions on legal questions submitted by the General Assembly or Security Council. It has jurisdiction over all matters of international law, including disputes arising from treaties, customary international law, and general principles of law.

Composition and Appointment

The ICJ is composed of 15 judges elected by the UN General Assembly and Security Council from a list of candidates nominated by national groups. Judges serve nine-year terms and can be re-elected indefinitely.