SaralnamaBurkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announced their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC). The three military-led countries called the ICC an instrument of neo-colonialist repression. They accused the court of targeting less privileged nations and failing to prosecute serious crimes. The countries plan to create their own peace and justice systems. Their exit will take effect one year after notifying the UN. These Sahel nations, facing violence from jihadist groups, have faced accusations of crimes against civilians. They recently left the West African economic bloc ECOWAS and have strengthened ties with Russia. To withdraw from the ICC, a country must send a formal letter to the UN Secretary-General. (Updated 23 Sep 2025, 09:43 IST; source: link)
Key Points
- Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announced their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC)
- The three military-led countries called the ICC an instrument of neo-colonialist repression
- They accused the court of targeting less privileged nations and failing to prosecute serious crimes