UN Watchdog to Investigate Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against ICC Prosecutor

Concerns of conflict of interest arise as the UN's Office of Internal Oversight Services is tasked with probing claims against Karim Khan.

The UN's Office of Internal Oversight Services has been selected to investigate allegations of sexual misconduct against International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan.
The allegations, first reported in May, include claims that Khan groped a female aide, coerced her into a sexual relationship, and engaged in other inappropriate behavior over several months.
Critics, including prominent human rights groups, have raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest due to Khan's wife's prior work with the UN agency in Kenya investigating sexual harassment.
The ICC has faced internal criticism for its handling of harassment claims, with a 2024 report revealing that 30% of surveyed staff experienced discrimination, abuse, or harassment in the past year.
The ICC continues to face external pressures, including cyberattacks and political opposition from nations like Israel, following its recent issuance of war crimes arrest warrants for high-profile figures such as Benjamin Netanyahu.