What drove Venezuela’s decision to leave the ICC?

What Happened

Venezuela's Foreign Minister Felix Plasencia announced on Friday that the country had formally notified the United Nations of its withdrawal from the Rome Statute, the treaty establishing the International Criminal Court (ICC). The instructions, he said, came from Interim President Delcy Rodriguez, who called the decision 'firm and irrevocable.' Plasencia accused the ICC of 'demonstrated geographical bias' for disproportionately targeting countries in Africa and Latin America. The United States quickly welcomed the move, with the State Department praising Rodriguez for joining 'American-led efforts to dismantle the corrupt and worthless ICC' and urging other member states to follow. The ICC stated that it had not yet received formal notification through the UN treaty office, but under the Rome Statute, withdrawal takes effect one year after notification and does not affect ongoing investigations or matters already before the court. The ICC's investigation into alleged crimes against humanity committed by Venezuelan security forces and pro-government groups during a crackdown on protests since 2017 will therefore continue.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The withdrawal signals a shift in Venezuela's foreign policy under Delcy Rodriguez, moving closer to Washington and aligning with US efforts to undermine the ICC. While the move does not halt the investigation into alleged crimes against humanity, it signals Caracas's commitment not to cooperate, potentially shielding officials still in power. This comes as the Trump administration escalates its campaign against the court, and it adds to growing hopelessness among Venezuelans seeking accountability for state violence. The decision also highlights the ICC's practical dependence on state cooperation and may embolden other states to withdraw, further weakening the institution.

Watch For

Monitor whether the ICC receives the formal notification and the one-year countdown begins. Watch for any progress or obstacles in the continuing investigation, including whether Venezuelan authorities cooperate or retaliate against witnesses. Track whether other ICC member states follow Venezuela's lead, especially amid US pressure. Also, observe the US's next steps in its campaign against the ICC, including potential sanctions or diplomatic actions.