US Threatens to ‘Dismantle’ ICC as Victims Demand Justice for Duterte’s Drug War

On July 17, 1998, nations adopted the Rome Statute, creating the International Criminal Court (ICC). That date is now recognized as International Justice Day. The ICC is the court of last resort for victims of the world’s most serious crimes. But this year, access to that justice is under threat. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced a stepped-up campaign to “dismantle” the ICC. Critics say the US government is trying to hand out “get-out-of-jail-free cards” to whomever it chooses. Despite these attacks, the ICC continues its work. This week, it sent its first case from Libya to trial. And the trial of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is set to begin in November. He is charged with crimes against humanity for his murderous “war on drugs.” Victims’ families and activists gathered outside the ICC in The Hague on February 23 to demand justice. ICC member countries and UN experts have spoken out against US sanctions. These sanctions, meant for human rights violators, are now being used against ICC officials. Some countries are also advancing justice at home. In Syria, the first atrocity crimes trial inside the country offers hope, despite its challenges. In Lebanon, two members of parliament introduced a bill to allow prosecution of serious international crimes. In Myanmar and Sudan, survivors and civil society groups are using the principle of universal jurisdiction. They seek justice in other countries because there are no meaningful options at home. On International Justice Day—and every day—governments should stand by victims. They should denounce attacks on the international justice system, support the ICC, and take concrete steps to protect those under attack.