Why the International Court of Justice asks about jurisdiction first
A court’s authority to hear a dispute is a separate question from which state has the stronger case.
Explainer · September 6, 2026Explore the edition
Inside Global Politics Editorial
Publication-level editorial attribution for AI-assisted explainers. This byline does not identify an individual reporter.
4 articles
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An ICJ advisory opinion is not the same as a judgment between states
The requester, participants and legal effect differ between the court’s two main forms of work.
Explainer · September 6, 2026Who speaks for a state at the World Court?
The role of an agent explains how courtroom procedure connects with formal state representation.
Explainer · September 6, 2026Why a Security Council abstention is not a veto
The same vote tally can mean different things depending on the question and the members voting.
Explainer · September 6, 2026