Today, on 16 October 2026, a revised version of the Code of Judicial Ethics of the International Criminal Court (ICC) enters into force.
During the Judges' Retreat, held on 29 September 2026, the judges of the Court agreed to amend the Code of Judicial Ethics, in accordance with regulation 126 of the Regulations of the Court.
The amendments to the Code address social media use by ICC judges and the binding nature of the Code of Judicial Ethics. A new sub-paragraph 3 to article 10 of the Code elucidates that judges shall exercise caution when using social media and other information technologies. Article 12 now expressly acknowledges that the ethical standards set out in the Code are binding and non-compliance with the Code of Judicial Ethics may amount to misconduct. These revisions reflect the judiciary's ongoing dedication to refining the ethical framework governing their conduct, ensuring it remains both contemporary and commensurate with the dignity and public trust in their judicial office.
The amendments to articles 10 and 12 of the Code of Judicial Ethics enter into force today, upon publication of the amended version of the Code on the ICC website. In revising the Court's Code of Judicial Ethics, the judges of the Court confirm their strong commitment to the highest ethical standards.
