Duterte and the Rome Statute: What You Need to Know

Here’s a straightforward primer on Rodrigo Duterte and the Rome Statute — the treaty behind the International Criminal Court (ICC):

📘 Duterte and the Rome Statute: What You Need to Know

The Rome Statute is the founding treaty of the International Criminal Court (ICC), established in 2002.
It defines the ICC’s jurisdiction over:
- Genocide
- Crimes against humanity
- War crimes
- Crime of aggression
Countries that sign and ratify it agree to be bound by the court’s authority.

📌 Important: The ICC still has jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was a member — from Nov 1, 2011 to Mar 16, 2019.

In February 2018, the ICC opened a preliminary examination into Duterte’s “war on drugs.”
Duterte called the move:
- “Unjust”
- “Politically motivated”
- A violation of Philippine sovereignty
One month later, he formally announced the Philippines’ withdrawal from the Rome Statute.

Does not erase past accountability: The ICC can still investigate alleged crimes committed before withdrawal.
Cannot shield Duterte from investigation or prosecution for crimes between 2011–2019.
Confirmed by ICC ruling in 2021: Withdrawal has no retroactive effect.

Date	Event
2011	Philippines ratifies Rome Statute
2016	Duterte begins presidency; drug war intensifies
2018	ICC opens preliminary examination
2018	Duterte announces withdrawal
2019	Withdrawal takes effect
2021	ICC approves full investigation
2025	Duterte arrested, faces ICC hearings

The Rome Statute is the legal foundation for Duterte’s case at the ICC.
His attempt to leave the ICC didn’t stop the court’s ability to pursue justice for past actions.
The situation tests how international law holds powerful leaders accountable — even after they exit global agreements.