The ICJ and the Limits of International Justice For the Rohingya

This analysis highlights the significant gap between legal accountability and tangible justice for the Rohingya people. While the International Court of Justice (ICJ) proceeds with its genocide case against Myanmar, over one million Rohingya refugees remain in precarious conditions in Bangladesh. The article argues that although ICJ rulings are legally binding, the court lacks direct enforcement mechanisms, relying instead on state compliance or the UN Security Council. However, political interests and veto powers held by permanent members like China and Russia often hinder effective intervention. Consequently, despite the legal visibility and documentation of human rights violations, the daily reality for Rohingya refugees has not improved. They face restricted movement, limited opportunities, and unsafe conditions in Myanmar, preventing dignified return. The piece emphasizes that international law can create a sense of accountability but fails to guarantee safety or immediate relief. It concludes that legal success may coexist with political failure, illustrating a broader challenge where justice on paper does not translate to justice in reality for marginalized communities facing protracted crises.