Sanctions May Impede Global Justice Efforts by 2026

A high-level panel of international legal experts, human rights defenders, and civil society leaders convened in Brussels to address what they described as an unprecedented threat to the global system of accountability. The discussion centered on U.S. sanctions targeting the International Criminal Court (ICC), Palestinian human rights organizations, and individuals documenting alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. The event, bringing together representatives from Palestinian NGOs, European advocacy networks, and global organizations, highlighted the growing impact of these sanctions and was characterized as a turning point for international justice with far-reaching implications.

From Targeted Measures to Systemic Pressure

Speakers noted a shift in the use of sanctions, evolving from targeted measures against individuals to a broader strategy affecting the entire ecosystem of international justice. Sanctions are now aimed at disrupting the entire chain of accountability, from grassroots documentation to judicial decision-making. This includes targeting civil society organizations gathering evidence, legal professionals and prosecutors, judges, and independent UN experts. The potential consequence is that if those who document and prosecute crimes are incapacitated, justice itself becomes unattainable.

The Global Reach of Financial Power

At the conference, Issam Younis, director of Al Mezan Center for Human Rights, and Raji Sourani, director of Palestinian Centre for Human Rights, questioned the justification for prolonged and coercive occupation being framed as an act of self-defense. They pointed to inconsistencies in the application of international law, including the framework established by the International Criminal Court under the Rome Statute, and the selective enforcement of sanctions, contrasting the response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine with the situation in Palestine. This selective enforcement, influenced by lingering colonial mindsets, undermines the credibility of international legal institutions.

They emphasized that the sanctions are not solely about Gaza or Palestine; they concern the integrity of the global justice system. Institutions like the ICC represent a vital human effort to uphold dignity, accountability, and the rule of law. The danger is that inequality in the application of the law may re-emerge, eroding trust in international law altogether. Sustained public engagement and collective action, grounded in shared human values, are seen as essential to achieving meaningful change.

Speakers also highlighted the extraterritorial impact of U.S. sanctions, noting that individuals and organizations, many based in Europe, have lost access to bank accounts, been cut off from digital platforms, and faced barriers in travel and financial transactions. This reflects a dependence on U.S.-linked financial and technological systems, allowing sanctions to function as a worldwide enforcement mechanism.

Palestinian Organizations Under Pressure

Representatives from Palestinian human rights organizations described the severe operational strain caused by the sanctions, including frozen bank accounts, cut funding streams, and staff unable to receive salaries. Despite these challenges, many continue their work under difficult conditions. They also described a broader pattern of pressure, including public smearing, designation as “terrorist organizations,” direct threats, and intimidation. This escalation is linked to their engagement with the ICC following Palestine’s accession to the Rome Statute in 2015.

The sanctions have created a pervasive atmosphere of fear, leading to a “chilling effect” where journalists reconsider coverage, NGOs limit advocacy, and legal professionals withdraw from sensitive cases, narrowing the space for accountability.

Europe at a Crossroads

A recurring theme was the role of the European Union. While EU institutions have publicly criticized sanctions against the ICC, speakers expressed frustration at the lack of concrete action. Particular attention was given to the EU “Blocking Statute,” a legal mechanism designed to counter the extraterritorial effects of foreign sanctions, which has yet to be activated in this context. Critics argue that this inaction sends a troubling message that external pressure can override EU commitments to international law.

The Risk of Double Standards

Several speakers pointed to inconsistencies in how international law is applied, contrasting the strong response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine with a more limited response to alleged violations in Palestine. This perceived selectivity risks undermining the legitimacy of international legal institutions.

Impunity and the Cycle of Violence

Representatives of regional human rights networks emphasized the link between impunity and escalating violence, outlining a recurring pattern: crimes are committed, accountability mechanisms fail, perpetrators face no consequences, and violence intensifies. Sanctions targeting accountability mechanisms may actively contribute to the continuation and escalation of violence.

The panel highlighted a global system under strain, with institutions like the ICC facing challenges from political pressure, financial constraints, and legal obstruction. Civil society organizations, essential partners in documenting and prosecuting crimes, are increasingly vulnerable.

Calls for Action and Global Stakes

Speakers called for stronger and more coordinated action from the European Union, activation of legal tools to protect affected actors, continued support for the independence of the ICC, and sustained advocacy by civil society and media. Matt Cannock of Amnesty International stated that silence or passive inaction from states and regional bodies is no longer tenable and that defending the ICC requires decisive action, including lifting U.S. sanctions and actively deploying blocking statutes.

The moment poses a choice: either defend and strengthen institutions designed to uphold human dignity and the rule of law, or allow them to be systematically dismantled.

Beyond One Conflict

While much of the discussion focused on Palestine, the implications are global. If the mechanisms designed to ensure accountability can be weakened or dismantled, the consequences will be felt across all contexts. The panel emphasized that this is a test of the international community’s commitment to justice itself.