The trial against Rodrigo Duterte, the former President of the Philippines, has begun at The Hague as he faces accusations of crimes against humanity linked to his controversial war on drugs. Starting Monday, the preliminary proceedings will determine whether the evidence presented is sufficient for a full trial. Duterte's administration is under scrutiny for thousands of deaths that allegedly occurred from 2013 to 2019, which included extrajudicial killings purportedly sanctioned under his leadership.

Duterte's notorious approach to crime, particularly in relation to drug offenses, drew international condemnation and led to significant human rights concerns. The former president had previously threatened the International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor should she attempt to enter the Philippines during his tenure. However, now he finds himself in the dock, with the ICC examining a total of 78 cases of murder and attempted murder that occurred during his administration. The trial is critical as it not only holds Duterte accountable but also serves as a marker for the international community's stance on human rights abuses.

As the proceedings unfold in The Hague, they could potentially shape the future of international law and the pursuit of justice for victims of state-sanctioned violence. Beyond the immediate implications for Duterte, the case raises broader questions regarding the limits of state power and accountability in governance, particularly in countries grappling with similar issues surrounding human rights violations in the name of national security or public safety.