Guterres Emphasizes the Importance of Law Over Power
THE HAGUE — Speaking at the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that international law is being openly challenged—even by the world’s most powerful nations.
“Today, violations of international law are unfolding before our eyes,” Guterres told a special sitting of the ICJ on Friday, joined by Dutch King Willem-Alexander.
He noted that the erosion of legal norms is “not happening at the margins of the international system. It is happening at its core—including by states entrusted with unique responsibilities for the maintenance of international peace and security.”
Without naming specific countries, Guterres pointed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as an example. The ICJ ordered Moscow to halt its attack weeks after the war began, but the order was ignored. Still, he reminded the court that its decisions are binding under the UN Charter. “Respect for those decisions is not optional,” he said.
The court, which settles disputes between nations, is busier than ever. It recently heard South Africa’s case accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention in Gaza. Last year, it also issued a landmark climate ruling obligating states to act on global warming.
Guterres said humanity faces a stark choice: “A future governed by the rule of law, or a future driven by raw power.”
ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa echoed the concern, noting “troubling signs” that some countries now openly question the value of law itself. “The international rule of law cannot be taken for granted,” he said.
Also Read:
Deep Tech in Saudi Arabia: A New Era of Innovation Led by SVC
Why Gold Prices Remain Stable Amid US-Iran Peace Deal Optimism
