ICC concerned after Chad, Venezuela withdraw

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has voiced concern following the recent withdrawals of Chad and Venezuela from the institution. The court's presidency acknowledged these developments, stating that "the pursuit of justice is strengthened through unity of purpose."

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The presidency regrets these developments.

Venezuela announced its withdrawal on July 25, followed by Chad two days later. Both countries cited accusations of bias in the ICC's investigations as their reason for leaving. This follows a similar diplomatic offensive by the United States, which has accused the court of threatening Americans and has imposed sanctions on some judges.

Chad specifically accused the ICC of disproportionately focusing its investigations on African nations. This sentiment echoes concerns previously raised by the military juntas ruling Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, who have also signaled intentions to leave the ICC. Venezuela, which is currently the subject of an ICC investigation into alleged crimes against humanity during protests since 2014, has echoed these complaints.

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The pursuit of justice is strengthened through unity of purpose.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Felix Plasencia stated, "Venezuela considers that the Court’s actions reflect a demonstrated geographical bias, which has disproportionately concentrated its work on African and Latin American countries." The ICC, based in The Hague, prosecutes individuals for the world's most severe crimes, including war crimes and crimes against humanity.

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Venezuela considers that the Court’s actions reflect a demonstrated geographical bias, which has disproportionately concentrated its work on African and Latin American countries.