ICC Upholds Jurisdiction Over Duterte Drug War Crimes Trial

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has unanimously dismissed former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's challenge to its jurisdiction over alleged crimes against humanity during his administration's "war on drugs," ruling that it retains authority despite the Philippines' 2019 withdrawal from the Rome Statute. The ICC judges clarified that preliminary examinations, which began before the withdrawal took effect, qualify as matters "under consideration" by the court, allowing the prosecution to proceed. Duterte's defense argued that the withdrawal nullified the ICC's authority and questioned his fitness to stand trial citing cognitive impairment, but these claims were rejected. The ruling clears the way for a full trial while Duterte remains detained in The Hague. The ICC also denied a request for Duterte's interim release, emphasizing the necessity of detention to ensure his attendance at legal proceedings. This decision affirms the ICC's ongoing efforts to hold Duterte accountable for alleged crimes committed while the Philippines was a State Party.