REFLECTIONS ON THE INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT'S JURISDICTION OVER ECOCIDE CRIMES

Abstract

This article examines the emerging concept of ecocide as a potential fifth crime under international criminal law. It analyzes the definition and scope of ecocide, exploring how widespread environmental destruction threatens global security and human rights. The paper discusses the challenges of incorporating ecocide into the Rome Statute, including political resistance, evidentiary difficulties, and judicial expertise concerns. Despite these obstacles, the article argues that addressing severe environmental damage through the International Criminal Court is essential for ensuring global peace and security, requiring coordinated international action and supranational cooperation based on common interests.