Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have announced their immediate withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC), citing it as a tool of neo-colonialist repression. The three military-led nations, which have close ties to Russia, claim the ICC disproportionately targets African countries and fails to prosecute powerful nations. Their withdrawal, effective one year after notifying the UN, reflects their rejection of Western influence and a preference for indigenous justice mechanisms. The ICC has yet to respond to this joint decision. The countries' actions follow previous withdrawals from the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) and amid accusations of their own forces committing crimes against civilians.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.