The International Criminal Court (ICC) has confirmed charges of crimes against humanity against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte for his role in anti-drug operations that allegedly resulted in the deaths of thousands of people. A panel of three judges ruled unanimously that there are substantial grounds to believe Duterte was responsible for murders and attempted murders carried out during his presidency from 2016 to 2022, as well as during his earlier tenure as mayor of Davao city.

Duterte, 81, was arrested in the Philippines last year and subsequently transferred to The Hague. He has denied all charges. The judges found that the killings were part of a widespread and systematic attack against the civilian population, carried out by police officers and hit squads purportedly under Duterte’s direction. Prosecutors argued that Duterte had ultimate authority over the operations, authorizing killings, selecting some targets, promising impunity, and providing financial incentives to those involved.

Estimates of the number of deaths linked to Duterte’s anti-drug campaign vary significantly. The Philippine National Police officially report more than 6,000 deaths, while human rights groups and international prosecutors estimate the toll could be as high as 30,000. Many of those killed were reportedly poor men from urban areas, shot in the streets or in their homes.

During pre-trial proceedings, prosecutors highlighted statements from Duterte that they say indicate incitement or admission of involvement in violence. Duterte reportedly made public remarks threatening widespread executions if elected president, and has been accused of running a death squad during his time as mayor. Prosecutors described the former leader as the central figure behind the campaign, which began as early as 2011.

Duterte’s defense team has questioned the ICC’s jurisdiction and challenged the evidence. They argue that Duterte is unfit to stand trial due to cognitive decline and memory loss, citing his age and health. His lawyer asserted that Duterte’s speeches were characterized by “hyperbole” and “rhetoric” rather than literal intent to commit murder, and that the prosecution’s allegations of a state policy to kill drug suspects will be disproven in court. The defense has also dismissed the testimonies of witnesses presented by prosecutors as unreliable.

It remains unknown whether Duterte will attend the trial once proceedings begin. He did not participate in the February pre-trial hearings, citing health reasons. Meanwhile, victims’ families have expressed hope and relief at the ICC’s decision to move forward with the case. Representatives of groups supporting relatives of victims have called the ruling a significant step toward justice.

No date has been set for the trial to commence. The case marks a historic moment for international accountability efforts related to state-led anti-drug campaigns in the Philippines.