The ICC is the world’s only permanent tribunal with a mandate to investigate and prosecute genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes, which are collectively called “atrocity crimes.” While these crimes have many overlapping characteristics - as a criminal act could be one, two, or all three of them - the three atrocity crimes are distinct. There is also no hierarchy among the three atrocity crimes. One crime is not graver than another.

Following activation by the Assembly of States Parties (effective in 2018), the ICC also has jurisdiction over the crime of aggression.

As a criminal court, the ICC investigates and prosecutes individuals for their role in these crimes (not states), and focuses on those most responsible.