The International Criminal Court (ICC) has commenced negotiations to decide if former President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, should face prosecution. Prosecutors at the ICC have charged Duterte with three counts of alleged involvement in crimes against humanity, with particular focus on at least 76 killings that occurred between 2013 and 2018 during Duterte's aggressive anti-drug campaign. Despite his advanced age of 80, Duterte has denied the allegations and participated in the proceedings via video link.

Human Rights Watch has called these proceedings a "significant step toward justice" for the victims of the controversial anti-narcotics drive that sparked global outrage and condemnation. The Philippines, having withdrawn from the ICC in 2019, raises legal complexities, yet the court maintains jurisdiction over crimes committed during the period of 2011 to 2019. The hearings, which will last four days, are critical, as judges will have 60 days post-hearings to decide if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the case against Duterte.

This development has wider implications not just for Duterte but also for the Philippines' political landscape, as it may lead to renewed discussions around human rights and accountability in governance. If the ICC pursues the case successfully, it could set a precedent for international legal actions against leaders in similar situations, thereby reshaping how state leaders are held accountable for human rights violations in the future.