80th Anniversary of the International Court of Justice

The Municipality of The Hague proudly marks the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice, headquartered in the iconic Peace Palace. As the international city of peace and justice, The Hague has long served as a global hub for international law, diplomacy, and accountability. 

For eight decades, the Court has played a vital role in the peaceful resolution of disputes between states and in strengthening the international legal order. 

The day before the anniversary, Mayor Jan van Zanen welcomed United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres to our historic City Hall. The visit marked a special moment and highlighted The Hague’s unique role as the international city of peace and justice. Against a backdrop of growing pressure on the international legal order, the Secretary‑General expressed his appreciation for The Hague’s role as host of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the past eighty years.

The ceremonial opening of the anniversary took place on 17 April at the Peace Palace. Among those attending the ceremony were His Majesty King Willem‑Alexander, UN Secretary‑General António Guterres, President of the United Nations General Assembly Annalena Baerbock, Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Berendsen, President of the UN Security Council Jamal Alrowaiei, Judge Iwasawa Yuji, President of the International Court of Justice, and Mayor Jan van Zanen. During this ceremony, attention was given to eight decades of peaceful resolution of conflicts.

On this day the Judicial Fellows Programme Alumni Association was also launched. This new network connects former fellows from around the world. The Judicial Fellows Programme is an international programme for young legal professionals. Fellows work directly with judges of the International Court of Justice and contribute to legal research and the preparation of cases with global impact. Peter Kievoet, Director of International Affairs of the Municipality of The Hague, addressed the alumni and emphasized the city’s long‑standing commitment to supporting everyone who works to protect and strengthen the international legal order.

For the Municipality of The Hague, this day marks the start of a series of activities related to the jubilee. Over the coming year, the municipality will continue to work with the Court and international partners, on events and moments throughout the city. Stay tuned for more!