Switzerland to closely monitor Duterte ICC case

Metro Manila, Philippines – Switzerland, a member-state of the International Criminal Court (ICC), is closely monitoring the case of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Swiss Ambassador to the Philippines Nicholas Brühl emphasized the significance of international law in a media briefing on Tuesday, April 2, stating that while the ICC process is crucial, the decision on the turnover of Duterte to the tribunal was the sole prerogative of the Philippines.

"It's for sure important that human rights is important, it is also important to defend international public law. We are part of the ICC but for us this decision was made by your government, but for the ICC it is a success," Brühl said.

The Swiss envoy reaffirmed his country's commitment to upholding human rights and international law, adding that Switzerland will continue observing how the case unfolds.

"The ICC is a part, a tool, and for us international public law is important so we will watch this case closely in which direction the case will go," he added.

Duterte is detained in The Hague, facing 43 charges of crimes against humanity for murder. He is set to appear before the ICC chamber again on Sept. 23 for the confirmation of charges.