Full Breakdown
Venezuela Moves to Withdraw from the International Criminal Court
12/12/2025, 4:18:43 AM
Legislative Action to Repeal the Rome Statute
On December 11, 2025, Venezuela's National Assembly unanimously voted to repeal the law ratifying the Rome Statute, which established the International Criminal Court (ICC). This legislative move paves the way for Venezuela to formally withdraw from the ICC, which has been investigating allegations of human rights abuses by the government of President Nicolás Maduro. Jorge Rodríguez, president of the National Assembly and a close ally of Maduro, stated that the repeal would take immediate effect, allowing the government to notify the ICC of its withdrawal. Rodríguez characterized the ICC as an institution serving "North American imperialism," asserting that the law's repeal would demonstrate its "uselessness and servitude."
Background of ICC Investigations
The ICC has been investigating the Maduro administration for crimes against humanity since 2023, focusing on allegations of torture, unlawful detentions, and extrajudicial killings during anti-government protests in 2017, which resulted in over 120 deaths. The investigation was initially paused to allow Venezuela to address these allegations internally but resumed in June 2023 after the ICC found insufficient progress. The court's recent decision to close its Caracas office, citing a lack of "real progress," further motivated the assembly's vote.
Official Statements and Responses
Rodríguez emphasized that the repeal of the Rome Statute is a denunciation of the ICC's perceived ineffectiveness, stating, "It is to demonstrate and denounce to the world the uselessness and subservience of an institution that should serve to protect the people." The Venezuelan government has consistently rejected the ICC's accusations, claiming there was no systematic attack on civilians. Following the assembly's vote, the Ministry of Foreign Relations criticized the ICC's closure of its Caracas office, alleging a lack of commitment to cooperation.
Criticism and Opposition
Human rights organizations have condemned the Maduro administration for its alleged human rights violations, including extrajudicial executions and violent crackdowns on opposition members. Critics question the independence of Venezuela's National Assembly, given Maduro's control over its membership. The opposition and various human rights groups argue that the withdrawal from the ICC will further shield the government from accountability for its actions.
Broader Implications
The withdrawal from the ICC may have significant implications for Venezuela's international standing and its ability to address human rights concerns. The ICC, which has 125 member states, is tasked with prosecuting major international crimes, including war crimes and crimes against humanity. Critics of the ICC have long argued that it lacks the enforcement power necessary to hold major powers accountable, as evidenced by the absence of the United States, China, and Russia as signatories.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is to demonstrate and denounce to the world the uselessness and subservience of an institution that should serve to protect the people,” — Jorge Rodríguez, President of Venezuela’s National Assembly
- “Regrettably, the ICC Prosecutor’s Office showed not the slightest commitment or spirit of cooperation,” — Venezuela’s Ministry of Foreign Relations
The ongoing investigation into the Maduro administration remains a contentious issue, particularly in light of the recent political climate following the contested 2024 presidential election, which has prompted renewed scrutiny of the government's actions against protesters.
