MEMBERSHIP in the United Nations (UN), or in similar transnational bodies such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), is an expression of solidarity by sovereign states with other states. Adherence to international treaties and agreements is symbolic of the commitment of a sovereign state to a regime of processes, protocols, principles and standards that seek to maintain the global order. This is necessary in the context of possible conflicts between and among states on various issues. However, aside from fostering peace by preventing the escalation of misunderstanding into full-blown wars, global agreements have also been forged to affirm the commitment of states to uphold universal principles and standards that are necessary not only to maintain good relationships between and among states, but also in celebrating the rights and welfare of all humanity and ensuring that these are respected by state signatories. It is in the latter context that the Rome Statute evolved and entered into force in 2002 which established the International Criminal Court (ICC) that would have jurisdiction over four core international crimes: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression.