The ICJ states the existing law and does not legislate. This is so even if, in stating and applying the law, the court necessarily has to specify its scope and sometimes note its general
trend.

The task of the court must be to respond, on the basis of international law, to the particular legal dispute brought before it. As it interprets and applies the law, it will be mindful of context, but its task cannot go beyond that.

The ICJ lacks compulsory jurisdiction and can settle disputes only if States are willing to submit themselves to its jurisdiction.