American Quote by Robert C. O'Brien
“First and foremost, the United States did not ratify the 1998 Rome Statute that founded the ICC. Successive administrations have stood by that decision and, as a result, American citizens are not subject to ICC jurisdiction.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on ICC jurisdiction, 2020
The United States has not joined the Rome Statute, so its citizens are not bound by the International Criminal Court’s authority.
In simple terms: U.S. is not subject to ICC because it didn’t ratify the treaty.
Key Takeaway
Know the legal limits of ICC jurisdiction.
Themes
law
sovereignty
international relations
Mood
analytical
neutral
Type
political
legal
When to use this quote
- diplomatic negotiations
- human rights advocacy
- legal education
Key Concepts
jurisdictional immunity
state sovereignty
Questions to Reflect On
- Should the U.S. reconsider joining the ICC?
- How does non‑participation affect global justice?
A Different Perspective
Limits accountability for alleged crimes abroad.
