N’Djamena, Chad (Running Africa) — Chad has announced plans to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), becoming the latest country to distance itself from the Hague-based tribunal amid growing criticism over its perceived focus on African nations.

The decision makes Chad the fifth country in recent months to signal its intention to leave the court, following similar announcements by Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Venezuela.

The move adds to mounting questions over the future credibility and global influence of the ICC as several member states challenge its impartiality and effectiveness.

Chad Accuses ICC of Disproportionately Targeting Africa

In a statement, Chad’s military-led government argued that the ICC has failed to deliver justice fairly and has disproportionately concentrated its investigations on African countries.

Officials noted that nine of the ICC’s 13 investigations have involved African states, reinforcing long-standing concerns among several governments that the court applies international justice unevenly.

The criticism echoes arguments that have been raised by a number of African leaders over the past decade regarding the tribunal’s prosecutorial priorities.

Wave of Withdrawals Signals Growing Discontent

Chad’s announcement follows a series of recent withdrawal declarations by Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Venezuela, highlighting increasing dissatisfaction with the court among some member states.

Although countries must follow the withdrawal procedures outlined in the Rome Statute before formally exiting the ICC, the announcements reflect growing political resistance to the institution.

If completed, the departures would further reduce the court’s membership at a time when it is already facing significant diplomatic and political challenges.

U.S. Pressure Intensifies Following ICC Arrest Warrants

The withdrawals also come amid heightened criticism of the ICC from the United States after the court issued arrest warrants in 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently pledged to “systematically disable” the court’s ability to operate, underscoring Washington’s escalating opposition to the tribunal.

Chad’s Foreign Ministry said U.S. officials had encouraged the country to reconsider its participation in the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC.

ICC Faces Uncertain Future as Global Support Is Tested

Established in 2002, the International Criminal Court was created to prosecute individuals accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and the crime of aggression when national courts are unwilling or unable to do so.

As more member states publicly question the court’s independence and authority, the ICC faces growing pressure to defend its legitimacy while continuing investigations into some of the world’s most serious international crimes.

Chad’s planned withdrawal marks another significant development in the evolving debate over the role, credibility and future of international justice, particularly in Africa, where the court has long faced accusations of selective prosecution.