The European Parliament granted the 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its senior officials. Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, said, "The European Union is founded on respect for multilateralism and international institutions. By awarding the Sakharov Prize to the International Criminal Court and its officials, Parliament recognises the important work carried out by the Court to uphold international law and justice."
Lawmakers expressed concern regarding sanctions imposed on the ICC since 2025, specifically those originating from the United States. Members of Parliament urged the European Commission to trigger the EU's blocking statute to shield ICC staff from American sanctions.
The United States announced sanctions against the ICC this month, with the Trump administration vowing to dismantle the court "brick by brick". These US sanctions are scheduled to take effect in six months.
Tomoko Akane, President of the ICC, noted that the prize carries particular significance by reaffirming the importance of independent judicial institutions and those who uphold international law. The award ceremony is scheduled to occur in Strasbourg this December.
Established in 1988, the Sakharov Prize saw the ICC as one of three finalists this year. Ursula von der Leyen, EU chief, stated that the International Criminal Court must be free to pursue its mission, independently, and without pressure or intimidation.
