European Parliament Awards Sakharov Prize to International Criminal Court

The European Parliament has awarded the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, German newspaper Handelsblatt and Czech news outlet Seznam Zprávy reported. The honor is conferred annually by the European Union on individuals and organizations dedicated to defending human rights and fundamental freedoms.

According to the reports, European officials cited the court's commitment to defending human rights and upholding freedom of expression, despite friction and headwinds from the United States. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that supporting the tribunal is essential to ensuring it can fulfill its intended purpose.

Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten also reported on the decision. Further details regarding the official award ceremony have not yet been released.