Symposium Introduction: Is There a Role for International Courts in Ending Wars?

International courts and tribunals often appear to be a mechanism to prevent war by providing a forum for States to resolve disputes peacefully and helping to maintain international peace and security. Article 2(3) of the United Nations Charter obligates States to resolve disputes peacefully and Article 33 lists several pathways for doing so – including judicial settlement. But once hostilities are underway, can courts still play a meaningful role? Can they facilitate de-escalation, contribute to settlement, or even help bring wars to an end? Can they contribute in other ways to improve conditions and safeguard protections as conflicts wind down or come to a close? Our End of War Project , which has in the past explored other themes related to the end of war, convened events on both sides