Beyond Policy: Overcoming Challenges in Prosecuting Gender Persecution at the International Criminal Court

While the ICC’s jurisdictional and resource constraints undoubtedly pose significant obstacles to its ability to tackle all cases of gender persecution worldwide, the Court’s efforts serve as a catalyst for progress in the field of international criminal law. By shining a spotlight on the crime of gender persecution and prioritizing its investigation and prosecution, the ICC sets a precedent for national jurisdictions to follow suit. Furthermore, the ICC’s engagement with gender-based crimes underscores the unique intersectionality of gender discrimination and conflict, highlighting the broader societal ramifications of such crimes, and the imperative to address them comprehensively. In moving forward, the ICC should continue refining its approach to addressing gender-based crimes and overcoming the challenges inherent in prosecuting gender persecution. Moreover, collaboration between the ICC and national jurisdictions is essential to ensure a coordinated and holistic response to gender-based violence. By leveraging the expertise and resources of both international and domestic legal systems, we can work towards a future where perpetrators are held accountable, victims receive the justice they deserve, and gender-based violence is eventually eradicated from our societies.