International Criminal Court Competition

A worldwide architectural design competition for the construction of the International Criminal Court’s permanent premises was launched today. The aim of this unique project, organised by the Chief Government Architect of The Netherlands, is to select the best architect and design that will be realised in the construction of the new building on a prime site covering over 72,000 m², bordering the North Sea dunes and The Hague.

The ICC and the host State of The Netherlands share the conviction that the new purpose built premises should provide suitable working conditions, functionality and security, whilst fulfilling an ecological remit. Within the premises, up to 1,200 workstations, courtrooms, and various ancillary facilities will have to be provided with a total gross floor space of up to 46,000 m². Furthermore, parking facilities as well as plans for further expansion for up to 300 workstations are foreseen. Therefore, the spatial and functional design should take into account the need for long-term flexibility.

To ensure anonymity and for technical purposes, the working language for the competition will be English. All candidates wishing to apply for submission should do so before the deadline, from which up to 20 participants will be chosen. The competition brief will then be sent to those selected in May 2008. Each contributor that submits a design concept in-line with the requirements laid down in the brief shall receive a fee of € 35.000. The three prize winners will be chosen from this group.

International Criminal Court (ICC)
The International Criminal Court was founded in 2002 when the Rome Statute, adopted in 1998, came into force. Currently, 105 countries have become parties to this International Treaty. The ICC is an independent and permanent court that prosecutes those accused of the most serious crimes of international concern: genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. The establishment of this Court is a milestone in the development of international justice.

Chief Government Architect
The current Chief Government Architect, Mels Crouwel, is the chief advisor on architecture to the Government Buildings Agency (Rijksgebouwendienst) and the Minister of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment. He oversees and promotes architectural quality and is responsible for ensuring that public buildings such as courts, prisons, museums and ministries fit into the urban landscape. He also advises the government on urban planning, the preservation and restoration of historic monuments, architectural policy and visual art in public places. Finally, he has a key role in preparing and implementing public policy on architecture.

For further information regarding competition details please access the ICC website:
www.icc-architectural-competition.com