The first permanent judicial institution with the competence to prosecute and punish individuals accused of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. It was established by the Rome Statute, adopted in 1998. It has been operating since July 2002. The Court is seated in The Hague, but judicial sessions may be held anywhere. This is not the same as the International Court of Justice of the United Nations, which is also located in The Hague, but has a different jurisdiction.