The European Parliament awarded the International Criminal Court (ICC) the Sakharov Prize for human rights on Thursday, demonstrating strong institutional support for the court amid persistent challenges from the United States. The announcement was made in Strasbourg, France, where lawmakers gave the court a standing ovation.

The parliament’s statement described the ICC as a “crucial actor in the global fight to end impunity,” underscoring the European Union’s commitment to multilateralism and international institutions. Roberta Metsola, president of the European Parliament, emphasized the significance of the court’s role in upholding international law and justice.

The recognition comes amid ongoing tensions between the ICC and the U.S. government, particularly under the Trump administration. The administration accused the court of violating American sovereignty and unfairly targeting U.S. allies, especially Israel. Early in his second term, President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing U.S. agencies to develop sanctions against the ICC. This month, the U.S. took the additional step of imposing financial sanctions intended to limit the court’s operational capacity.

In its statement, the European Parliament referenced a 2025 resolution in which lawmakers expressed “deep concern at the growing threats and the various waves of sanctions” directed at the ICC, with a particular focus on actions taken by the United States. The parliament’s endorsement coincides with the court’s efforts to maintain its independence and effectiveness despite external political pressures.

Established in 2002 and headquartered in The Hague, the ICC is tasked with investigating and prosecuting serious international crimes, including genocide and war crimes. The court’s jurisdiction, however, extends only to countries that have ratified the Rome Statute. To date, 125 countries are parties to the treaty. The United States and Israel are among the notable countries that have not joined the ICC and are therefore not subject to its rulings.

The ICC welcomed the Sakharov Prize as a “significant recognition of the role of international justice as a cornerstone of lasting peace.” The award, named after Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov, honors individuals and organizations that defend human rights and fundamental freedoms. A formal award ceremony is scheduled to take place in December in Strasbourg.