The rule of law in the world is increasingly being replaced by the law of the jungle.
Elchi.az reports that this was stated by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during his speech at the Security Council’s open debate dedicated to the rule of international law.
The Secretary-General has issued a serious warning about the weakening of the global legal system in recent years. He stated that the rule of law is the cornerstone of global peace and security.
Guterres recalled that the international legal system formed over the past 80 years has helped humanity avoid great disaster: “This system has helped humanity avoid a Third World War.”
According to him, the existing rules prohibit the use of force and bind all states to the same legal framework.
The head of the organization added that international law is vital for particularly weak countries: “International law is a lifeline for weak and less powerful countries, promising equality, sovereignty and justice.”
According to the Secretary-General, a dangerous trend is currently observed in the world: “The rule of law in the world is increasingly being replaced by the law of the jungle.”
A.Guterres noted that the illegal use of force, the targeting of civilian infrastructure and the obstruction of humanitarian aid create dangerous precedents. As a result of these processes, distrust and division arise between states.
The Secretary-General emphasized the role of the Security Council: “The Security Council is the only body authorized to make decisions on behalf of all member states on matters of peace and security. That is why reform is necessary.”
The UN official made an open appeal to the 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 based on international law, and real stability cannot be achieved without eliminating the causes of conflicts.”