Chad's Foreign Ministry announced on Monday its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), citing concerns over the court's limited effectiveness and perceived selective prosecution practices.
The government formally notified the United Nations Secretary-General of its intent to leave the Rome Statute, the treaty establishing the ICC. Chad becomes the fourth francophone African country to take this step in under a year, following Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, all under military-led administrations.
Government's Critique of the ICC
In a statement, Chad's Foreign Ministry highlighted an "in-depth review" of the ICC's operations since its inception in 2002, concluding that its impact remains inconsistent across regions. The ministry condemned the court for an "undeniable and egregious selectivity" in its prosecutions, noting that nine of the 13 cases initiated so far involve African states, while cases in other regions have seen little progress.
The ministry pointed out that out of seven individuals detained due to ICC investigations, only one was from outside Africa. This, it argued, reflects a disproportionate focus on the Global South and the African continent in particular.
Appeal to African Union and National Justice Systems
Chad called on other African Union members to consider similar withdrawals, asserting that this move does not abandon the pursuit of justice for victims. Instead, it expressed confidence in the ability of national and African judicial mechanisms to handle such responsibilities with dignity.
The statement was signed by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ibrahim Adam Mahamat.
Context and Political Background
Chad’s leadership remains closely tied to the military, with President Mahamat Idriss Deby, son of the late former president Idriss Deby, holding power since 2021. The government has faced accusations of suppressing opposition and violent crackdowns on protests.
The withdrawal announcement coincides with recent turmoil at the ICC, including the vote to remove Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan amid allegations of sexual misconduct.
International Reactions and US Involvement
Last week, Chad’s Foreign Ministry revealed that US officials had urged the country to reconsider its ICC membership, expressing concerns over the court’s functionality. Chad responded that it would review the request through appropriate channels.
The United States has never ratified the Rome Statute and has become increasingly critical of the ICC, especially following the issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli officials after the 2024 US elections.
