I completely understand and see the value in your opposition to an international police force, however I believe that many of your misgivings could also be applied to the United Nations, and the UN has still managed to remain mostly a positive force for over 50 years now. The egalitarian funding and the issue of discontent regarding the nationality of the soldiers are both things that are already addressed by the UN, in terms of their funding and committee membership considerations. In addition, an international police force would have the individual militaries of the UN member states to keep them in check, similar to how a coalitional force like NATO operates right now. However, I do agree with you in the sense that I believe the member states' militaries should remain the primary force for apprehending criminals, but in cases where a nation's military is fragmented or non-existent an international force would be a great asset.
David Scheffer
Professor of Law
Comment on the Arrest Lecture Question: “What steps can and should the ICC take to secure the arrest and surrender of indictees?”
I completely understand and see the value in your opposition to an international police force, however I believe that many of your misgivings could also be applied to the United Nations, and the UN has still managed to remain mostly a positive force for over 50 years now. The egalitarian funding and the issue of discontent regarding the nationality of the soldiers are both things that are already addressed by the UN, in terms of their funding and committee membership considerations. In addition, an international police force would have the individual militaries of the UN member states to keep them in check, similar to how a coalitional force like NATO operates right now. However, I do agree with you in the sense that I believe the member states' militaries should remain the primary force for apprehending criminals, but in cases where a nation's military is fragmented or non-existent an international force would be a great asset.