Understanding the International Criminal Court

34. Can the Prosecutor decide on his own initiative to open an investigation?

Yes, if the Office of the Prosecutor receives reliable information about crimes involving nationals of a

State Party or of a State which has accepted the jurisdiction of the ICC, or about crimes committed in the

territory of such a State, and concludes that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation.

Such  information  can  be  provided  by  individuals,  intergovernmental  or  non-governmental

organisations, or any other reliable sources. The Prosecution must, however, obtain permission from

the Pre-Trial Chamber judges before initiating an investigation under such circumstances.