The Japanese government is considering paying its 2027 contribution to the International Criminal Court ahead of schedule, according to multiple government officials. The aim is to support the court's work before US sanctions take effect.
The United States designated the ICC as an organization in October and set a 180-day grace period before the sanctions apply. Once in force, the measures would restrict financial transactions and could delay the payment of staff salaries.
Japan is the court's largest contributor, paying about ¥4.6 billion for 2026. Within the government, officials are discussing ways to fund the 2027 contribution, including by including the related expenses in the supplementary budget for fiscal 2026.
The move would keep the court funded through a period when its largest financial backer is moving against it. Japan has said it wants to preserve the ICC's functions while avoiding provoking Washington.