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What is the role of the ICJ in international disputes?
The International Court of Justice serves as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, tasked with settling legal disputes between states and providing advisory opinions on international legal issues. Its role is to promote peace and justice by resolving conflicts through legal means rather than military action.
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How does a case get brought to the ICJ?
A case can be brought to the ICJ by any member state of the United Nations. The process typically begins with one state filing an application, which outlines the dispute and the legal grounds for the court's jurisdiction. The opposing state is then given the opportunity to respond, and the court will determine whether it has jurisdiction to hear the case.
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What are the outcomes of previous ICJ rulings?
ICJ rulings can result in various outcomes, including legally binding decisions that require states to comply with the court's judgment. Previous rulings have addressed issues such as territorial disputes, maritime boundaries, and human rights violations, influencing international law and state behavior.
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How might the Cambodia-Thailand case influence future disputes?
The ongoing Cambodia-Thailand border dispute, which has escalated to the ICJ, could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future. If the ICJ rules in favor of Cambodia, it may encourage other nations to seek legal resolutions rather than engaging in conflict, thereby reinforcing the importance of international law.
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What are the limitations of the ICJ?
While the ICJ plays a vital role in international law, it has limitations. The court can only hear cases if both parties consent to its jurisdiction, which means that states can refuse to participate. Additionally, the ICJ lacks enforcement power, relying on the United Nations Security Council to implement its decisions.
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How does the ICJ differ from other international courts?
The ICJ differs from other international courts, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), in its focus. While the ICJ resolves disputes between states, the ICC prosecutes individuals for crimes like genocide and war crimes. This distinction highlights the ICJ's role in state-to-state relations rather than individual accountability.