ICC Trains More Than 100 Lawyers on Courtroom Practice, AI, and Cybersecurity

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — More than 100 lawyers took part in a three-day International Criminal Court training program from September 22 to 24, with about 50 joining online. The European Union-funded event brought together lawyers on the ICC’s List of Counsel, assistants to counsel, and members of legal teams currently working before the court. International Criminal Court

The program paired practical courtroom exercises with discussions about the challenges lawyers face in ICC proceedings. Sessions covered questioning witnesses, assessing memory and witness behavior, representing victims, and working in countries under investigation. Participants also examined the use of AI tools, confidentiality, data protection, and cybersecurity. International Criminal Court

One session addressed legal representation under Article 55 of the Rome Statute, which concerns the rights of people during ICC investigations. Lawyers also practiced cross-examination and learned about support available through the court’s Counsel Support Section, the ICC Bar Association, and offices that support defense counsel and victims’ counsel. International Criminal Court

Marc Dubuisson, the ICC’s director of judicial services, said the training gave legal professionals a place to strengthen their skills and discuss shared challenges. He linked independent, well-prepared counsel to fair proceedings and public confidence in international justice. International Criminal Court

The ICC has held annual seminars and training for lawyers on its lists since 2004. This year’s hybrid format allowed participants to join at the court’s headquarters in The Hague or remotely. International Criminal Court