The European Union has awarded its prestigious Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its officials, just days after U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration imposed sweeping sanctions on the tribunal over its investigations involving the United States and its allies, including Israel.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced the decision Thursday in Strasbourg, France, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to international institutions, multilateral cooperation and the rule of law. The announcement received a standing ovation from lawmakers.
ICC President Tomoko Akane welcomed the recognition, describing it as particularly significant at a time when the court and its personnel are facing unprecedented challenges. She said the award reinforces the importance of maintaining independent judicial institutions and protecting those responsible for enforcing international law.
Established in 1988, the Sakharov Prize is the European Union’s highest human rights honour. Named after Soviet dissident and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Andrei Sakharov, the annual award recognizes individuals and organizations defending fundamental freedoms and human rights.
Founded in 2002, the International Criminal Court serves as a court of last resort for prosecuting individuals accused of serious international crimes, including genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression.
The Trump administration’s latest sanctions significantly restrict the ICC’s access to American financial services, technology providers and U.S. dollar transactions. American businesses and individuals maintaining commercial relationships with the tribunal have been given six months to terminate those arrangements.
The award recipient was selected by the European Parliament’s president and senior lawmakers from nominees proposed by parliamentary political groups.
Other finalists included imprisoned Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu and Iranian twins Taraneh and Romina Rahimi, who are being detained for participating in anti-government demonstrations.
The EU’s decision highlights its continued support for international judicial accountability amid escalating tensions between Washington and the ICC over the tribunal’s investigations and authority.
