Photo by Tony Webster (CC BY 2.0)

The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has introduced a new Policy on Addressing Environmental Damage Through the Rome Statute, in December 2025. Under this Policy, the ICC can investigate and prosecute genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression when these crimes cause or result in serious harm to the environment.

The Policy reflects the OTP’s strong commitment to preventing and responding to environmental damage. It encourages working closely with national authorities to investigate and prosecute crimes that harm the environment, while also promoting accountability and sharing best practices at both national and international levels. It lays out how the OTP will use its powers to address crimes that have an environmental impact.

The Policy also underlines the human consequences of environmental harm. Vulnerable groups, including children, the poor, and marginalized communities, are often disproportionately affected by environmental damage. Damage to the environment can threaten health, destroy livelihoods, and undermine dignity, reinforcing cycles of inequality and injustice.

Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan said, “This Policy reflects the Office’s recognition of the urgent need for a global effort to tackle environmental degradation. Through this Policy, the Office aims to do its part to deliver environmental justice.”