International Law

Following the ICC's February naming of eight officials as co-perpetrators with detained former president Rodrigo Duterte, human rights groups are demanding arrest warrants amid confirmed charges in the crimes against humanity case over anti-drug war killings.

April 22, 2026 በAI የተዘገበ

The International Criminal Court's appeals chamber ruled on April 22, 2026, to reject all four grounds of former president Rodrigo Duterte's appeal on jurisdiction, stemming from the Philippines' 2019 withdrawal from the Rome Statute. The decision clears the path for the pre-trial chamber to determine if the case proceeds to trial, expected by April 28. Both Duterte's critics and supporters in The Hague vowed to continue their campaigns.

In an interview, Zane Dangor, director-general of South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation, described both the US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iran's retaliatory attacks on neighbouring Gulf states as violations of international law. He emphasised that such actions breach the UN Charter and undermine global norms. Dangor stressed that South Africa's position is guided by legal principles rather than political alliances.

February 28, 2026 በAI የተዘገበ

As former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte nears one year in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC), the prosecution and victims' representatives objected to his interim release during the pre-trial stage, citing his unlikelihood to adhere to conditions and cooperate with the court. This stems from his waiver of attendance at hearings and actions by his supporters. A decision on whether the case proceeds to trial is expected within 60 days.

Opposition lawmakers in the House of Representatives have filed resolutions seeking the revival of the Philippines' membership in the International Criminal Court. The Duterte administration withdrew the country's membership in March 2018. The resolutions aim to reaffirm commitment to human rights and justice.

February 23, 2026 በAI የተዘገበ

The International Criminal Court has begun its confirmation of charges hearing against former President Rodrigo Duterte in The Hague, without the accused's personal presence. Over 500 drug war victims are participating through their legal representatives, while the Philippine National Police prepares for possible protests in the Philippines. This hearing will assess if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to a full trial.