Final answer:
The ICC was set up in 1998 by the UN to prosecute individuals for international crimes like genocide and war crimes. It's distinct from the UN and builds on past tribunals' efforts to end impunity for serious crimes. Sovereignty concerns prevent some countries from participating.
Step-by-step explanation:
The International Criminal Court (ICC) was established by the United Nations in 1998 to try individuals accused of the most serious crimes of international concern, specifically genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and, as of 2018, the crime of aggression.
The ICC serves as a permanent international tribunal to address atrocities and serious violations of international law when national courts are unwilling or unable to prosecute offenders. It operates independently from the United Nations and is governed by the Rome Statute.
The Rome Statute has been ratified by over 120 states; however, notable countries such as Russia, China, and the United States have not joined, partly due to concerns about national sovereignty and the potential for political prosecutions.