THE HAGUE, Netherlands — June 10, 2026 — Her Majesty Queen Máxima of the Netherlands and Ms. Elke Büdenbender, spouse of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, visited the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday, reaffirming the shared commitment of Germany and the Netherlands to international justice and accountability.
During the visit, Queen Máxima and Ms. Büdenbender met with ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane and ICC Registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler at the Court’s headquarters in The Hague.
The visit formed part of the official state visit to the Netherlands by President Steinmeier and Ms. Büdenbender, which is taking place from June 9 through June 11 at the invitation of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander.
The International Criminal Court serves as the world’s permanent tribunal for prosecuting individuals accused of the gravest crimes under international law, including genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. Headquartered in The Hague, the Court plays a central role in global efforts to ensure accountability when national jurisdictions are unable or unwilling to prosecute such offenses.
According to the ICC, the visit highlights the continued support of both Germany and the Netherlands for international justice mechanisms and the global fight against impunity. As two of the Court’s strongest supporters and State Parties to the Rome Statute, both nations have long advocated for strengthening international legal institutions and promoting accountability for serious crimes that affect the international community.
The meeting also comes at a time when the ICC remains engaged in several high-profile investigations and prosecutions involving alleged war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other violations of international law. Continued diplomatic support from member states remains critical to the Court’s ability to carry out its mandate effectively.
By visiting the ICC during the state visit, Queen Máxima and Ms. Büdenbender underscored the importance of international cooperation in upholding justice, protecting human rights, and ensuring that those responsible for the world’s most serious crimes are held accountable.
The visit serves as a symbolic reminder of the enduring partnership between Germany and the Netherlands in supporting the rule of law and strengthening international institutions dedicated to justice and accountability.
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