ICC Assembly Launches Selection Process for Fourth Prosecutor

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — The Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties has launched the procedure to elect the fourth Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, with applications open through January 31, 2027.

Announced October 27 following consultations with member states and other stakeholders, the process includes public posting of qualified applications, an advisory assessment, and comprehensive due diligence.

The election is scheduled for December 2027, although the timetable may change if the process requires.

Applications Open to Individuals and State-Sponsored Candidates

The application period began October 31, 2026. Candidates may apply directly, while individual States Parties or groups of States Parties may submit applications on someone’s behalf.

Applications must be sent to the Assembly’s Secretariat at asp@icc-cpi.int.

The vacancy announcement, application requirements and selection procedures are available on the Assembly’s prosecutor election webpage.

Assembly President Päivi Kaukoranta said the procedure aims to attract highly qualified candidates through a transparent and structured selection process.

Qualified Applications Will Be Published

According to the announcement, applications from all qualified candidates will be posted on the Assembly’s website in February 2027.

Applicants will undergo an assessment by the Advisory Committee on Nominations of Judges, which will serve as the Advisory Committee on the Election of the Prosecutor.

A separate due diligence process will be conducted by the Independent Oversight Mechanism, known as the IOM.

Confidential Channel Will Receive Misconduct Allegations

After applications are published, the IOM will open a confidential channel for receiving allegations of misconduct concerning applicants.

The channel forms part of the screening process. An allegation does not, by itself, establish that misconduct occurred.

Election Planned for December 2027

The Bureau’s timetable places the election in December 2027, subject to possible amendments.

The Assembly of States Parties serves as the ICC’s management oversight and legislative body. It consists of representatives of countries that have ratified or acceded to the Rome Statute, the court’s founding treaty.

Source: Assembly of States Parties press release dated October 27, 2026.

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