Book excerpt: This is the third volume in the series by the Leiden Journal of International Law dealing with the Decade of International Law and International Dispute Settlement. In this book, the 50th anniversary of the International Court of Justice is commemorated. Its past and future role is examined from various angles which have been defined as roles played by the Court. First and foremost, its role as a mechanism for the settlement of disputes is examined. The analysis goes beyond the traditional frontiers of disputes between states and also explores the possibilities of granting international organizations and individuals access to the Court. The second role that is looked into is its supervisory role, or, in other words, its possible role as supreme court in international law. Thirdly, the Court in its advisory function is examined. The last role that is focused upon is the Court in its role as developer of rules of international law. The book ends with a conclusion from both a legal and a political perspective.