On April 3, 2025, Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orbán announced Hungary’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC). The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was visiting Hungary at the time.

The decision was made in response to the ICC’s issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli officials. On November 21, 2024, the Court issued arrest warrants for Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes. As a state party to the Rome Statute, Hungary is obligated to cooperate with the ICC. However, Orbán denounced the Court’s actions as a “witch hunt” and expressed Hungary’s solidarity with Israel.

Under Article 127 of the Rome Statute, a state’s withdrawal takes effect one year after the date of the receipt of written notification submitted to the Secretary-General of the United Nations. Most importantly, a state’s withdrawal does not affect obligations that arose while it was still a party to the Rome Statute. Accordingly, Hungary remains bound by its legal obligations under the Rome Statute until the withdrawal takes effect and even afterward with respect to acts committed before the date of withdrawal.

Later on April 3, 2025, the Presidency of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute expressed concerns regarding Hungary’s decision. It emphasized the ICC’s role in promoting global accountability and highlighted that Hungary’s existing legal obligations will remain unaffected. The Presidency urged Hungary to reconsider its decision and remain a party to the Rome Statute.

While the withdrawal is unlikely to have legal consequences concerning the ongoing ICC investigations, it raises serious concerns about the future of state cooperation with the Court, the erosion of international criminal accountability, and the overall effectiveness of global justice mechanisms.