Which statement best describes the ICJ's main function?

• A. Settling legal disputes between states
• B. Negotiating private commercial contracts
• C. Issuing national court judgments
• D. Setting monetary policy

Answer: (A)

The main function of the International Court of Justice is to settle legal disputes between states under international law. It serves as the principal judicial arm of the United Nations, and states agree to its jurisdiction in order to have disputes over treaties, borders, use of force, diplomatic relations, and other international-law issues adjudicated. The Court’s judgments are binding on the parties involved, and it can also issue advisory opinions when asked by UN organs.

This differs from private commercial matters, which are handled by private arbitration or domestic courts; the ICJ does not negotiate private contracts. It also does not issue national court judgments—that is the role of domestic courts in individual countries. And it does not set monetary policy, which is the domain of central banks and international financial institutions.