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.

Mandate of ICJ: (1) Promote implementation and enforcement of international law codes such as Geneva Convention (against humanitarian crimes) (2) Takes cognizance of any case reports by member of UNGA on government of a state (not private individuals) (3) Mandate is limited to crimes and not commercial activities such as contract breach (e.g. Indus Waters Treaty) (4) No suo-moto cognizance Challenges associated: (1) Lack of enforcement power in absence of a global police/international force (2) Limited fund availability to maintain own force (3) Lack of teeth for any judgment or verdict (as recent South Africa case against Israel)