How does the International Court of Justice settle disputes between countries?

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, settles disputes between sovereign states through a formal judicial process. Because the court operates on the principle of consent, no state can be sued without its agreement, which may be granted via special treaty, a specific agreement (compromis), or a declaration of compulsory jurisdiction.123

Once a case is before the court, proceedings involve the presentation of written and oral arguments, and the court may appoint experts or hear witnesses to investigate the matter. Disputes are resolved when the parties settle, a state withdraws, or the court delivers a final, binding verdict based on international law.13

While the ICJ lacks its own enforcement powers, the Charter of the United Nations allows parties to seek recourse through the Security Council if a judgment is not performed. Additionally, the court provides non-binding advisory opinions on legal questions when requested by authorized UN organs.12