'ICC detention unit a prison within a prison'

THE quiet fishermen's village of Scheveningen in The Hague in the Netherlands is home to one of the most scrutinized detention facilities in the world: the International Criminal Court's (ICC) Detention Unit. Here, in stark contrast to his years of dominance in Philippine politics, former president Rodrigo Duterte, facing charges related to crimes against humanity, is detained under the ICC's authority while awaiting trial. In an interview, a legal expert with access to the detention facility told The Manila Times that visiting Duterte requires going through a rigorous security screening. Visitors must pass multiple passport checks, clear metal detectors, and navigate a maze of fences and heavy doors before reaching "Building 4," the international cell block where the former Philippine president is held. "The ICC Detention Unit is a prison within a prison, nestled inside the larger Dutch penitentiary system but governed by its own regulations," said the legal expert, who requested anonymity. One of the most common misconceptions about the ICC Detention Unit, he noted, is that it offers luxurious accommodations. "It's not a hotel or a palace. It meets international standards, but luxury is not a word I would use," he said. "Every detainee, including Duterte, is held under conditions ensuring humane treatment — but without special privileges." Inside, Duterte is stripped of the comforts he once enjoyed. His cell is simple: a bed, bookshelves, a toilet and a washbasin. The former leader, who once wielded immense power, now follows the routine of an ordinary detainee. His days begin at 7 a.m. when cell doors open, allowing movement within the unit. He can choose to remain in his cell or join others in communal areas. There, detainees can cook together, play chess, watch television, or exercise in the gym. Some grow vegetables in the courtyard, a rare taste of autonomy in an otherwise restricted life. For Duterte, mealtime is a definite adjustment. Accustomed to the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine, he now contends with standard Dutch prison fare — bland and repetitive. Like other detainees, he has the option to order ingredients and cook his own meals, a small freedom many take advantage of. In an environment devoid of most pleasures, food becomes a daily highlight. "Cooking is something they take seriously there," the legal expert said. "It's one of the few personal freedoms they have left." Unlike Philippine detention centers, where overcrowding and harsh conditions are common, the ICC Detention Unit operates under strict human rights regulations. Restricted calls A stark difference from his past life is the restricted communication. While Philippine detention centers often allow more flexible access to the outside world, ICC detainees face stringent monitoring. Duterte has a monthly allowance of 200 minutes for phone calls to family and friends. He must submit a list of up to 25 approved numbers, verified by the ICC to prevent witness intimidation. Calls are recorded and can be used as evidence in court proceedings. However, conversations with his lawyers remain confidential under attorney-client privilege. Detainees have access to computers for legal research, but they are strictly offline — no emails, no social media, and no direct contact with supporters in the Philippines. Perhaps the most jarring aspect of Duterte's new life is his company. Throughout the day, he interacts with fellow detainees — an eclectic mix of accused war criminals and political figures from various continents. The ICC Detention Unit has housed some of the world's most notorious figures, including warlords, military leaders, and politicians accused of crimes against humanity. The ICC's detention officers, many of whom are multilingual, maintain order and ensure detainees are treated with dignity. In return, detainees are expected to respect the staff and each other. There is also a conjugal room, the legal expert said. "It's where detainees can meet their wives in privacy within visiting hours. There's no restriction on the number of family visits, but travel expenses can make it difficult for families," he said, adding that visits must be scheduled to accommodate all detainees. Every now and then, Duterte may also expect visits from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) which has unrestricted access to the ICC Detention Unit to conduct periodic inspections, ensuring compliance with international standards and assessing the treatment of detainees. By 8:30 p.m., Duterte's day comes to an end as his cell door is locked for the night.