N’DJAMENA, CHAD
July 28, 2026
Chad has announced its intention to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), becoming the latest nation to distance itself from the world’s permanent war crimes tribunal amid growing criticism from several African governments over what they describe as selective justice and political bias.
The Chadian government confirmed that it has formally notified the United Nations of its decision to begin the withdrawal process from the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC. Under the statute, the withdrawal will take effect one year after the notification is received, although the court will retain jurisdiction over crimes allegedly committed while Chad was still a member.
Officials in N’Djamena said the decision reflects concerns that the court has failed to deliver impartial justice and has disproportionately focused its investigations and prosecutions on African nations. The government argued that the tribunal has not treated all regions equally and questioned its effectiveness in addressing major international conflicts involving powerful countries.
Chad becomes the fifth country in recent months to announce plans to leave the ICC, following similar moves by Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Venezuela. The wave of withdrawals comes at a time when the court is facing significant internal and external challenges, including the dismissal of former chief prosecutor Karim Khan, diplomatic pressure from the United States, and criticism over its handling of high-profile investigations.
The International Criminal Court has expressed regret over the decision, maintaining that cooperation among member states is essential to combating genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression. Court officials have emphasized that withdrawal does not erase existing legal obligations or prevent ongoing investigations related to alleged crimes committed before a country’s departure becomes effective.
Human rights organizations warned that Chad’s withdrawal could weaken international efforts to hold perpetrators of serious crimes accountable, particularly in a region affected by armed conflict and political instability. Analysts also cautioned that the growing number of departures may further challenge the credibility and effectiveness of the ICC, even as supporters argue the institution remains a vital pillar of international justice.
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