Final answer:
The International Criminal Court (ICC) was created in 1998 by the UN to try individuals for severe international crimes like genocide and war crimes, filling a permanent role in international law.
Step-by-step explanation:
The International Criminal Court (ICC) was established by the United Nations in 1998 to provide a permanent institution for the trial of individuals accused of the gravest offenses, such as war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. In contrast to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has jurisdiction over disputes between states, the ICC is focused on holding individuals accountable for their actions.
The establishment of the ICC represents a significant milestone in international law, addressing crimes that have a profound impact on international peace and security. Over 120 states have become party to the Rome Statute, which is the treaty that created the ICC, reflecting a wide recognition of its authority, although some major powers have been reluctant to fully acknowledge its jurisdiction.