2026 Sakharov Prize awarded to the International Criminal Court and its officials
Roberta Metsola announced the choice in Strasbourg. The ceremony will take place in December; the award does not lift sanctions.
The International Criminal Court and its officials collectively have been awarded the 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced the choice in the Strasbourg plenary chamber on Thursday 22 October.
The decision’s message
In Parliament’s official release, Metsola links the award to the Court’s work in upholding international law and justice and to support for international institutions. The ICC complements national courts in dealing with the gravest international crimes.
In a separate statement dated 22 October, the Court thanks Parliament. It says it faces unprecedented challenges, including sanctions that, in its account, seek to disrupt its judicial mandate. It calls for continued international cooperation to enable independent and impartial work.
What happens next
The formal ceremony is planned for Parliament’s December plenary session in Strasbourg. Today’s announcement identifies the laureate. It does not lift sanctions or activate the EU blocking statute; the release recalls earlier calls by MEPs to use that instrument.
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