A Decisive Stand for Justice: Myanmar Rohingya Genocide ICJ Hearing 2026 Begins

The smoke from Rakhine State has long since dissipated, but the quest for accountability has only grown stronger. On January 12, 2026, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) opened hearings on the merits of the genocide case against Myanmar. For the first time, Rohingya survivors are standing at the world’s highest court to recount the horrors they endured.

Inside the Myanmar Rohingya Genocide ICJ Hearing 2026

These proceedings, scheduled until January 29, focus on whether the 2017 "clearance operations" by the Myanmar military constituted genocide. Despite the Myanmar junta's repeated denials and attempts to discredit witnesses, the ICJ took the exceptional step of allowing survivors to testify. This move is a direct response to the 6-year legal battle led by The Gambia, supported by international organizations like Legal Action Worldwide.

Global Implications of the Ruling

While Myanmar will likely ignore a negative ruling, the legal consequences are far-reaching. A positive judgment from the ICJ would empower U.N. member states to escalate sanctions and apply diplomatic pressure. Simultaneously, the principle of universal jurisdiction has already seen courts in Argentina issue warrants for 25 top officials, creating a multi-layered net of accountability.