The Presidency of the International Criminal Court (ICC) announces with great sadness the passing of former ICC Judge Georghios M. Pikis on Thursday, 29 January 2026.
"The passing of Judge Pikis is an enormous loss for the ICC and for international justice more broadly. After nearly two decades since the end of his mandate, Judge Pikis continues to be known for the passion, dedication and sincerity with which he approached both his judicial duties and the interactions with his colleagues. Being amongst the first Judges elected to serve at the Court, and as a staunch advocate for fair trial rights, Judge Pikis has made an indispensable contribution to the Court's institutional framework and jurisprudence during its early years. As we mourn the passing of Judge Pikis, I also take great pride in the fact that I - and all those who serve and will serve at the Court - will continue to stand upon his shoulders as we carry out our mandate", stated the President of the Court, Judge Tomoko Akane.
The President of the Assembly of States Parties, Ambassador Päivi Kaukoranta, stated "The Assembly of States Parties deeply mourns the passing of Judge Georgios M. Pikis and honours the contribution he made to the Rome Statute system, both as a distinguished member of the International Criminal Court's bench from 2003 to 2009, and as a lifelong servant of justice and the rule of law. Judge Pikis helped to shape the Court's early jurisprudence and institutional foundations. He will be remembered for his independence of mind, his thoughtful and principled approach to complex legal questions, his numerous legal publications, and his steadfast commitment to fairness and due process".
Judge Pikis, a national of Cyprus, was elected by the States Parties to the Rome Statute in the first election of ICC judges in February 2003 for a 6-year term. After assuming his duty, he served as a Judge of the Appeals Division, including as its President. By presiding over several appeals and contributing through his judicial opinions, he was instrumental in shaping the early jurisprudence of the Court. Judge Pikis was President of the Supreme Court of Cyprus from 1995 to 2004, and a Supreme Court Judge since 1981. Judge Pikis also served as ad hoc judge of the European Court on Human Rights on two occasions, in 1993 and 1997. He was elected as a member and served on the United Nations Committee against Torture from 1996 to 1998. In his capacity as President of the Supreme Court, he served until 2004 as Chairman of the XIIIth Conference of European Constitutional Courts. Judge Pikis has written numerous legal publications and has given lectures and speeches.
A condolence book will be available at the lobby of the International Criminal Court from 4 to 9 February 2026. Messages of condolence can also be sent by email to: .
