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The debate on the ICC regarding its legitimacy and effectiveness in acting against grave breaches of human rights has been manifold. In this thesis, research is conducted based on the question of whether or not an independent, impartial and effective court has been established through the Statute of Rome. Further, the hostile attitude of the US towards the Court will be discussed in terms of the legitimacy of the arguments put forward. Finally, the peace promoting effects that are expected of international criminal prosecution are analysed regarding their probability and feasibility.

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Mag.a Margarete Lengger ist Politologin und Doktorandin am Institut für Politikwissenschaft der Universität Wien.

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