Event Summary
Mali’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC) marks a worrying step in the deterioration of the human rights situation and democratic governance. This decision of 22 September 2025, announced by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), deprives citizens and civil society of an essential international mechanism for combating impunity for the most serious crimes, including war crimes and crimes against humanity. It is part of a broader trend towards the concentration of power and the restriction of civic space under the banner of national sovereignty. This trend is characterised by the postponement of elections indefinitely, the dissolution of political parties, the repression of independent media and the arbitrary detention of various actors.
In this context, the Malian people find themselves deprived of fundamental guarantees, both nationally and internationally, in the face of abuses and potential violations of their rights. The gradual closure of channels for citizen participation and accountability undermines the legitimacy of institutions and increases the risk of impunity. United Nations experts have called on Mali to reconsider its decision and to remain in the ICC. the withdrawal thus symbolises a major setback for democracy, justice and the rule of law in Mali.