On 13 July 2026, the United States announced a campaign to dismantle or systematically disable the International Criminal Court (ICC). The measures reportedly include diplomatic pressure on ICC States Parties, possible reductions in assistance, additional financial sanctions, visa restrictions and efforts to persuade countries to withdraw political and financial support from the Court. Trinidad and Tobago is particularly affected because it is a longstanding ICC State Party and played a formative role in the Court’s establishment through the advocacy of former prime minister and president Arthur NR Robinson.
The announcement prompted public intervention from stakeholders in Trinidad and Tobago. Movement for Social Justice leader David Abdulah urged the Government not to support the United States initiative; Independent Senator Anthony Vieira argued that silence was not an acceptable response; and former minister Winston Dookeran warned that weakening the Court would undermine international accountability. Former foreign affairs minister Dr Amery Browne also called for the Government to disclose its position. However, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar initially declined to comment publicly on the campaign.
The event affects civil society’s enabling environment because organisations supporting international justice, victims and human-rights accountability have already been targeted by United States sanctions. Further escalation could discourage Trinidad and Tobago organisations from engaging with the ICC, constrain funding and banking access, and create fear of travel, financial or reputational consequences. At the same time, the open interventions by domestic stakeholders and media demonstrate continuing space for civic advocacy. The key concern is whether this advocacy receives a transparent and responsive government answer.