Niger has officially withdrawn from the International Criminal Court (ICC), becoming the third country to leave the tribunal, officials confirmed on Monday. The West African nation submitted a formal notification of its departure to the United Nations, initiating the process to exit the court’s founding treaty, the Rome Statute.

In its notification, Niger cited concerns over what it described as selective justice by the ICC. The letter expressed disappointment that the court, initially seen as a symbol of hope for peace and justice, has instead been "misused and exploited." The government did not provide further details on specific cases or actions that prompted the decision.

The ICC, based in The Hague, prosecutes individuals for war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. It relies on cooperation from member states for investigations and enforcement. Niger’s decision marks a significant development in the court’s standing in Africa, where several countries have voiced frustrations with the ICC’s focus and perceived biases.

Prior to Niger, Burundi and South Africa were the only two countries to formally exit the ICC, each citing similar concerns over the impartiality and politicization of the tribunal’s work. However, the ICC continues to have the support of the majority of its members, and officials maintain that it remains committed to impartial justice and accountability worldwide.

Niger’s withdrawal takes effect one year after the UN received its notification, as stipulated by the Rome Statute. Until then, the country remains bound by its obligations under the treaty. Analysts say the move may affect cooperation on investigations or prosecutions involving Nigerien nationals or events within its borders.

The government of Niger has yet to outline alternative mechanisms for handling serious international crimes domestically or through other international venues. The decision comes amid ongoing security challenges in the region, including armed conflicts and terrorist activity, where accountability and justice efforts are critically observed by international partners.