The arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte is supported by overwhelming evidence of widespread and systematic extrajudicial killings linked to his administration’s campaign against illegal drugs, according to the United Nations.
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk said the organization has extensively documented human rights abuses during Duterte’s presidency and emphasized the lack of a domestic mechanism to ensure accountability.
The UN also noted that there had been near impunity for such violations.
“This is a very important step towards seeking accountability for the thousands of victims of killings and other abuses, as well as their families who have courageously pursued justice,” Türk said.
“The so-called war on drugs campaign undertaken under Duterte’s leadership—first in Davao and then across the country—has long been of concern to our Office. We welcome the positive changes in the area of drug policy that the current government has subsequently pursued,” he added.
Türk also commended the Philippine government for its cooperation in enforcing the international arrest warrant against Duterte.
He urged authorities to continue protecting victims and witnesses as the former president undergoes trial and called on the Philippines to rejoin the Rome Statute, which it withdrew from in 2019.
“Our international legal frameworks and institutions, including the ICC (International Criminal Court), are fundamental to ensuring justice and achieving accountability for the most serious crimes, preventing future violations, and making the world safer for everyone,” he said.