UN Secretary-General issues serious warning over weakening of global legal system

Around the world, the rule of law is being replaced by the law of the jungle, UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated during an open debate of the Security Council dedicated to the rule of international law, Report informs.

The Secretary-General issued a serious warning about the weakening of the global legal system in recent years, stressing that the rule of law is the cornerstone of global peace and security.

Guterres recalled that the international legal system established over the past 80 years has helped humanity avoid major catastrophe: "This system has helped humanity to avert a Third World War."

He noted that existing rules prohibit the use of force and bind all states within the same legal framework.

The UN chief added that international law is of vital importance especially for weaker states: "For smaller and less-powerful countries, and those suffering from historical inequities and the damaging legacies of colonial rule, international law is a lifeline promising equal treatment, sovereignty, dignity and justice."

According to Guterres, a dangerous trend is currently being observed worldwide: "The rule of law is increasingly being replaced by the law of the jungle."

He emphasized that unlawful use of force, targeting of civilian infrastructure, and obstruction of humanitarian aid create dangerous precedents, leading to mistrust and fragmentation among states.

Highlighting the role of the UN Security Council, Guterres said: "Only the Security Council can authorize the use of force under international law, as set out in the Charter. Its responsibility is singular. Its obligation is universal. That is why reform is essential."

Finally, the UN official made an open call to states: "The purposes and principles of the UN Charter are not optional. Disputes must be resolved peacefully, human rights must be protected, and international law must be respected. Lasting peace is only possible when it is based on international law, and real stability cannot be achieved without addressing the root causes of conflicts."