Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger Begin Formal Exit from ICC

Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have officially started the process of withdrawing from the International Criminal Court (ICC), marking a significant shift in the three Sahel nations' relationship with international justice.

The ICC confirmed that the military-led governments formally initiated the withdrawal process after notifying the court of their decision in September 2025. Under the Rome Statute, the withdrawal will take one year to become effective.

The three countries, which form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), have increasingly distanced themselves from Western partners, including France, while strengthening security cooperation with Russia.

In announcing their decision, the governments described the ICC as a "tool of neocolonial repression," arguing that the court unfairly targets African nations.

The Hague-based tribunal is responsible for prosecuting individuals accused of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression when national courts are unable or unwilling to do so.

Reacting to the move, the ICC expressed concern, warning that the withdrawal of the three countries could weaken global efforts to combat impunity and deliver justice for victims of serious international crimes.

The ICC currently has 125 member states, although major powers such as China, India, Russia, the United States and Israel are not parties to the Rome Statute.

• Tweet
• Share
• Share
• Share
• Share