Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger Withdraw from International Criminal Court

Sahel Alliance States Accuse ICC of Neo-Colonial Bias

The governments of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have announced their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC).

In a joint statement on Monday, September 22, 2025, the three countries — which make up the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) — said the decision was taken in response to what they described as neo-colonial interference in African affairs.

The withdrawal marks a significant break from international legal frameworks. It follows a series of moves by the juntas in the three West African states to distance themselves from Western influence and strengthen regional cooperation under the AES.

The statement was endorsed by:

Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso

Colonel Assimi Goïta of Mali

General Abdourahamane Tiani of Niger

Under ICC procedures, withdrawal becomes effective 12 months after official notification to the United Nations. Until then, the three countries remain subject to the court’s jurisdiction.

Critics have warned the decision could hinder efforts to address war crimes and human rights violations in the Sahel, a region facing widespread insecurity from armed groups.

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