Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared that he will not cooperate with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) investigation into the controversial anti-drug campaign led by his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. This refusal is based on the assertion that the ICC lacks jurisdiction in the Philippines, with Marcos emphasizing the perceived threat to the nation’s sovereignty.
Sovereignty Concerns and Non-Cooperation
President Marcos voiced his stance, considering the ICC’s investigation as a threat to Philippine sovereignty. He explicitly directed government agencies not to provide any assistance to the ICC probe, signaling a resolute non-cooperation stance. This decision has significant implications for the victims of the drug war and their families.
Background and International Criticism
Duterte’s Withdrawal from ICC
Under President Duterte’s administration in 2019, the Philippines withdrew from the ICC, a move that garnered criticism from the international community. The withdrawal came amid escalating concerns over human rights abuses associated with the aggressive anti-drug campaign.
ICC’s Reopened Inquiry
In January of the previous year, the ICC reopened its inquiry into the drug war, rejecting Manila’s appeal against its resumption in July. The international tribunal’s decision to investigate drew attention and scrutiny from various human rights organizations.
Impact on Human Rights Advocacy
Blow to Victims and Families
President Marcos’s refusal to cooperate with the ICC poses a significant setback for victims and families affected by the drug war. Human Rights Watch and other advocacy groups estimate that the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign resulted in the deaths of approximately 27,000 people. The lack of cooperation impedes the pursuit of justice for those affected by the violent campaign.
Also read: 7.1-Magnitude Earthquake Rocks Xinjiang, Injuring 6; Yunnan Landslide Death Toll Rises to 11
Future Considerations and Reevaluation
Marcos’s Ongoing Review of ICC Membership
In November, President Marcos indicated that a potential return to ICC membership was “under study.” However, the recent refusal to cooperate suggests a complex relationship between the Philippines and the international tribunal. The nation’s stance on ICC membership remains subject to ongoing scrutiny and evaluation.
As the Philippines grapples with these geopolitical dynamics, the global community continues to observe how the government’s decisions impact accountability, human rights, and international relations. The rejection of the ICC probe raises questions about the balance between national sovereignty and the pursuit of justice on the global stage.
