Question Q.19GS2GS2
As the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) provides a judicial mechanism for the peaceful resolution of international disputes. In this context, throw light on the structure and mandate of ICJ. Also, highlight the challenges it faces in fulfilling its mandate. (15 marks, 250 words)
Introduction
The International Court of Justice is one of the 6 principal organs of the United Nations.
16 words
Main Body
The International Court of Justice is one of the 6 principal organs of the United Nations.
Structure of ICJ:
Consists of 15 judges
Elected for a period of 9 years
India's Dalveer Bhandari (Cp)
Elected by UNSC by majority vote
Mandate of ICJ:
1Peaceful resolution of disputes between nation states who are members of the UN
2Can pass judgements based on international law like USHR 1948
3Ensure protection of rights guaranteed under international accords such as Geneva Convention (Cp) Hrishikesh Tadbar got complex cases
4Law pass orders that UNSC can enforce
However, there are challenges:
1Can not try individuals who fall under International Criminal Court
2Does not have own enforcement mechanism = Depends on UNSC which is dysfunctional due to VETO
3Dispute over compulsory jurisdiction vs voluntary
4Dispute with state sovereignty as all nations don't accept its rulings
5Judges being the line of their countries
6Non-representation of various other offices so no permanent member in UNSC to push its cases
Seeing the ongoing geo-political conflicts ICJ must be strengthened.
183 words4 paragraphs4 bullet points
Conclusion
Seeing the ongoing geo-political conflicts ICJ must be strengthened.
9 words
Answer continues on next page
- Clear structural information
- Mentions specific details like India's representation
- Outlines key mandate points
- Identifies multiple concrete challenges
- Links to UNSC dysfunction
- Addresses sovereignty concerns
Topper
BHAVESH JAGLAN
AIR 1282025
Subject & Paper
GS2GS2
Topic
International Institutions, Agencies and Fora - Structure and Mandate
International Court of Justice
Structure, Mandate and Functioning of ICJ
Writing Stats
208
Total words
4
Paragraphs
4
Bullets
critical analytical
Tone