Chad is reportedly preparing to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), potentially becoming one of several African countries to leave the court amid growing criticism of its activities.
The move would add Chad to a wider debate over the role and effectiveness of the ICC, which was established to prosecute individuals accused of serious international crimes, including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Supporters of the court argue that the ICC is an important mechanism for holding powerful individuals accountable when national courts are unable or unwilling to prosecute them. However, some African governments have accused the court of disproportionately focusing on African countries and leaders.
Chad’s possible withdrawal could further deepen tensions between African governments and the ICC. It may also raise concerns among human-rights organisations about the future of international justice and accountability on the continent.
If Chad formally leaves the ICC, the decision would not immediately end the court’s authority over crimes committed while the country was still a member. The process of withdrawal would also have to follow the legal requirements set out in the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC.
The development comes as debates over the ICC’s role continue to intensify, particularly over accusations that international justice is being applied unevenly across different regions of the world.