Since then, the number of ratifications has continued to climb, reaching 76 this week.

ECONOMIST: Tipping the scales of justice | The

The midterm U.S. elections that gave the Democrats control of Congress in January 2007, have delayed the much anticipated ratifications.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Are the Democrats pushing Colombia away?

The 60 ratifications required to set up the court were achieved in April, years before even the most zealous court supporters had hoped.

ECONOMIST: Court quarrel continues | The

To this end 50 ratifications are required before 19 July 2012.

FORBES: The Future of Life On Earth: Part Two Of The Discussion

They could press on with the remaining 14 national votes, as happened in two earlier cases of ratifications in the face of "no" votes, or could declare the draft constitution dead.

FORBES

If there are fewer than 21 ratifications by the end of October 2006--and with two no votes and the U.K. and Denmark also likely to vote no, that is cutting the margin of error razor thin--the whole matter reverts to the European Council to work out, so the Council may decide to cut its losses now.

FORBES