Why the ICC Is Investigating Duterte

Here’s a clear summary of why the International Criminal Court (ICC) is investigating Rodrigo Duterte:

⚖️ Why the ICC Is Investigating Duterte

🔍 The Core Reason: Alleged Crimes Against Humanity

The ICC is investigating Duterte for crimes against humanity, specifically tied to his administration’s brutal “war on drugs” from 2016 to 2019 — and his earlier record as mayor of Davao City. These crimes include:

Murder
Torture
Other inhumane acts

These acts were allegedly:

Widespread (thousands killed)
Systematic (coordinated by the state)
Targeted (focused on poor, urban communities)

🧭 Jurisdiction Timeline

The Philippines was a member of the Rome Statute (ICC’s founding treaty) from 2011 to 2019.
Although Duterte withdrew the Philippines in 2019, the ICC retains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the country was a member (Nov 1, 2011 – Mar 16, 2019).

📊 Scale of the Drug War

6,000–30,000+ deaths, depending on the source.
Victims included suspected drug users and small-time dealers — often killed without trial.
Many were killed in so-called “nanlaban” (resisted arrest) cases by police or unknown assailants.
Human rights groups documented evidence of cover-ups, planted evidence, and vigilante-style executions.

📅 Key ICC Actions

2018: ICC opens a preliminary examination.
2021: ICC authorizes a full investigation.
2025: Duterte is arrested and transferred to ICC custody.
September 2025: Confirmation of charges hearings are scheduled.

🧾 Legal Grounds

The ICC is focusing on:

Article 7 of the Rome Statute, which defines crimes against humanity.
Duterte’s possible direct involvement and command responsibility (i.e., he either ordered or knowingly ignored the crimes).

🌐 Why This Case Is Important

It tests the reach of international justice over domestic policies.
It could set a precedent for accountability of state leaders.
It’s a rare case of a former president facing trial for policies justified as national security.