The Chadian government announced its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), citing its limited and inconsistent effectiveness in a Monday statement by the government spokesman.

N’Djamena emphasized that this move follows a thorough review of the Court’s operations since its establishment in 2002, highlighting a disproportionate focus on African nations. Of the thirteen investigations initiated, nine targeted African states, while only four addressed situations elsewhere without tangible outcomes.

The spokesman pointed out that as of now, the ICC holds only seven detainees, six of whom are facing charges in African-related cases. He criticized the Court’s uneven application of justice, arguing that its actions have lacked concrete results beyond the continent.

U.S. pressures prompt review

According to a Thursday statement from Chad’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the withdrawal decision was influenced by discussions with the United States. Earlier that day, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs urged Chad to reconsider its ICC membership during a phone call with the Chadian foreign minister.

The U.S. delegation expressed concerns about the Court’s functioning and requested that Chad reassess its commitment to the Rome Statute. However, Chad’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Sabre Fadoul, clarified that this decision was not solely driven by American pressure.

Under scrutiny for alleged violations

Chad’s withdrawal comes at a critical time, as it faces accusations from Sudanese military officials and multiple NGOs of facilitating arms shipments from the United Arab Emirates to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). These paramilitary groups have been engaged in a brutal civil war against Sudan’s army since April 2023.

Vincent Brengarth, a French lawyer representing several NGOs, warned that Chad’s exit could undermine ongoing efforts, including a 2025 complaint filed against alleged international crimes linked to arms trafficking. Both warring factions in Sudan have repeatedly been accused of war crimes, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians.

Brengarth concluded that this withdrawal weakens the global justice system and raises fears that perpetrators of grave crimes may evade accountability. Earlier, Venezuela also announced its exit from the ICC, citing a geographical bias that disproportionately targets African and Latin American nations.