ICC President Meets Belgian Ministers Over Sanctions and Court Independence

Judge Tomoko Akane praised Belgium’s continued support during talks addressing pressure on the International Criminal Court and its personnel.

BRUSSELS — International Criminal Court President Judge Tomoko Akane met with senior Belgian government officials on October 22, 2026, to discuss the Court’s activities, sanctions and other coercive measures targeting the institution and its personnel.

The meetings at Egmont Palace included Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Development Cooperation, Maxime Prévot, and Minister of Justice Annelies Verlinden, according to an ICC press release.

Following the discussions, Akane thanked Belgium for its longstanding backing of the Court, describing the country’s support as “consistent and unwavering.” She said that commitment extends both to proceedings before the ICC and to the challenges currently confronting the institution.

Akane also expressed appreciation for the frank and constructive exchanges with the Belgian ministers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining close cooperation as the Court faces what she described as attempts to interfere with its independence.

“At a time when the Court faces attempts to interfere with its independence, it is the unwavering support of Belgium and other States Parties that allows the Court to continue carrying out its mandate undeterred,” Akane said.

Her remarks underscored the importance the Court places on support from its member countries as it responds to external pressure. Akane said she looked forward to continued collaboration with Belgium in pursuit of their shared commitment to international justice.