Chad has formally notified the United Nations of its intention to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), criticizing the tribunal for perceived inefficiency and partiality towards African countries. The move marks Chad as the fourth African nation since 2025 to initiate the exit process from the ICC.
The ICC, established under the Rome Statute to prosecute serious international crimes, faces growing challenges. Its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, was removed from office in July 2025 following sexual misconduct allegations. Additionally, several African states including Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have also distanced themselves from the court.
Regional and Global Reactions
- The United States has expressed support for Chad’s decision. The U.S. Bureau of African Affairs encouraged other member states to reconsider their participation in the ICC, highlighting concerns about national sovereignty.
- Earlier executive actions by the U.S. government imposed sanctions on the ICC related to investigations involving Israel, a U.S. ally.
- Venezuela recently announced its own withdrawal, accusing the ICC of disproportionate focus on African and Latin American countries and alleging political bias.
Chad’s withdrawal process will take at least one year to complete. The decision reflects broader skepticism about the ICC’s impartiality and effectiveness, particularly among nations in the Global South.
