H.R.1839 - Move the ICC Out of NYC Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1839, the "Move the ICC Out of NYC Act of 2025," aims to prevent the International Criminal Court (ICC) from using United Nations facilities located in the United States. The bill requires the U.S. Ambassador to the UN to negotiate a supplemental agreement to the United Nations Headquarters Agreement. This agreement would prohibit the UN from hosting, leasing, or allowing the ICC to use its facilities within the U.S. The bill expresses Congress's view that the ICC lacks jurisdiction within the United States or over United States persons.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would likely lead to the ICC being unable to maintain an office within the UN headquarters in New York. This could hinder the ICC's ability to conduct certain activities, potentially impacting its interactions with UN member states. The bill reflects a continued skepticism towards the ICC's jurisdiction and authority by some in the U.S. government.
Potential Benefits
- Reinforces U.S. sovereignty by limiting the influence of international bodies.
- Addresses concerns about potential overreach by the ICC regarding U.S. citizens.
- Reasserts Congressional control over international agreements and U.S. foreign policy.
- May appeal to those who believe the ICC is biased or ineffective.
- Could strengthen the U.S.'s negotiating position with the UN on other matters.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could strain relations with countries that support the ICC.
- May be seen as undermining international justice efforts and the pursuit of accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
- Could limit the U.S.'s ability to engage with the ICC on specific issues of mutual concern.
- May be perceived as isolating the U.S. from the international community.
- Could set a precedent for other countries to limit cooperation with international organizations.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's attempt to influence international agreements through domestic legislation aligns with Congress's power to regulate foreign commerce and conduct foreign policy, as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. The bill also touches upon issues of national sovereignty and the extent to which international bodies can exercise jurisdiction within the United States. However, the Constitution does not explicitly address the specifics of agreements with the United Nations or the ICC.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).