The Hague, 16 October 2026 — A revised version of the Code of Judicial Ethics of the International Criminal Court (ICC) enters into force today, introducing amendments concerning judges’ use of social media and the binding nature of the Code.
The amendments were agreed upon by the judges during their annual judicial retreat on 29 September 2026, in accordance with Regulation 126 of the Regulations of the Court.
A new subparagraph 3 has been added to Article 10, requiring judges to exercise caution when using social media and other information technologies. Article 12 has also been amended to expressly affirm that the ethical standards set out in the Code are binding and that non-compliance may constitute misconduct.
These changes reflect the Court’s commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and ensuring that the conduct of its judges remains consistent with the responsibilities and public trust associated with judicial office.
The amendments to Articles 10 and 12 enter into force today, following publication of the revised Code on the ICC website.
Read the ICC Code of Judicial Ethics.
