world 10 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
US Sanctions on ICC Jeopardize Reparations for Northern Uganda Atrocity Survivors
New US sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC) are raising serious concerns for thousands of victims of atrocities in Northern Uganda, potentially halting vital reparations and support. The Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) has warned that these sanctions could inflict devastating harm on vulnerable communities worldwide. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/us-sanctions-on-icc-threaten-billions-in-reparations-for-northern-uganda-atrocity-victims-5626776
Thousands of survivors from the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) conflict in Northern Uganda face an uncertain future due to recent US sanctions imposed on the International Criminal Court (ICC). Human rights advocates fear these sanctions could directly imperil crucial financial support and reparations intended for victims of mass atrocities.
The Trust Fund for Victims (TFV), an independent body responsible for delivering reparations and rehabilitation to survivors of crimes adjudicated by the ICC, has voiced significant concern. Washington’s decision to freeze assets risks causing severe repercussions for vulnerable populations globally.
The TFV highlighted that the sanctions would gravely impact numerous victims, including children, women, and men who have endured horrific acts such as abduction, sexual violence, murder, torture, pillage, and persecution. These sanctions could halt much-needed financial aid that has been instrumental in addressing the physical, psychological, financial, and material needs of war survivors.
Past ICC decisions have ordered substantial reparations for victims, such as the €52.4 million ordered for victims of former LRA commander Dominic Ongwen. As Ongwen is indigent, the TFV is tasked with mobilizing these resources from the international community. The current US sanctions cast a shadow over the successful mobilization and disbursement of such funds, leaving survivors in a precarious position.