Question

Two statements are given. Choose the correct option based on the statements
Statements :
1. The International Court of Justice can hear disputes only between States
2. Individuals have no local standi before the International Court of Justice

• A. Only the statement (1) is true
• B. Only the statement (2) is true
• C. Both statements (1) and (2) are true
• D. Both statements (1) and (2) are false

Hint:

Remember that the ICJ is a court for countries (states) only.
For international criminal prosecutions of individuals, the correct body is the International Criminal Court (ICC), not the ICJ.
Keeping this distinction in mind is crucial.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question consists of two statements regarding the jurisdiction and access to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
We need to verify the accuracy of each statement and choose the correct option.

Step 2: Key Concept or Approach:
We need to refer to Article 34 of the Statute of the International Court of Justice, which explicitly defines who can be parties in cases before the Court.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Let us analyze Statement 1: "The International Court of Justice can hear disputes only between States"
- According to

Article 34(1) of the ICJ Statute, "Only states may be parties in cases before the Court."
- This means only sovereign countries that are parties to the Statute can submit contentious disputes to the ICJ.
- Therefore, Statement 1 is factually and legally true.

• Let us analyze Statement 2: "Individuals have no local standi before the International Court of Justice"
- "Locus standi" refers to the right or capacity to bring an action in court.
- Since Article 34 limits parties strictly to sovereign states, private individuals, corporations, non-governmental organizations, or non-state entities cannot file lawsuits or be sued in the ICJ.
- For instance, if an individual's rights are violated by a foreign nation, that individual cannot approach the ICJ. Instead, their home state must adopt their cause (diplomatic protection) and bring the dispute to the ICJ.
- Therefore, Statement 2 is also factually and legally true.

• Since both statements are true, the correct choice is Option (C).


Step 4: Final Answer:
Both statements are true, which corresponds to Option (C).