On the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice, Guterres calls for respect for its decisions and warns against the erosion of the rule of law

Guterres’s statements came during a speech he delivered in The Hague on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Court, in which he recalled the words of the President of the first session of the United Nations General Assembly, Paul-Henri Spaak, who said at its opening eight decades ago: “There can be no civilized world, nor lasting peace, unless there is complete and absolute respect for international jurisdiction and its provisions.”

The Secretary-General confirmed that International Court of Justice – Over eight decades – it contributed to shaping the features of the modern international system. He pointed out that the list of cases before the court is “more crowded than ever,” considering this clear evidence of the growing confidence in its authority and independence.

He also drew attention to the fact that the increasing number of female judges within the court enhances its legitimacy, describing this as: “A sign of progress that should continue,” In addition to modernizing its work methods to enhance its effectiveness and resilience.

Guterres stressed that the court remains the guarantor that the principles of sovereignty and equality do not become “mere ink on paper,” adding: “Brute force, no matter how great it may be, cannot – and should not – replace legal obligation.”

The Secretary-General emphasized that “Court decisions, including interim measures, are binding on the parties concerned… respecting those decisions is not optional.”

Increasing violations and questioning of institutions

António Guterres pointed out that violations of international law “are unfolding before our eyes today,” noting that military operations violate the basic rules of the conduct of conflicts, while humanitarian obligations, and even the rules that protect the United Nations itself, are ignored.

He added that the institutions established to establish justice are now facing “increasing doubts and challenges,” stressing that this erosion is not occurring on the margins of the international system, but rather “at its core,” including on the part of countries that bear unique responsibilities for maintaining international peace and security.

The Secretary-General warned that: “When the law of force replaces the force of law, instability becomes a contagious phenomenon.”Pointing out that conflicts extend across borders, and the repercussions of economic crises reverberate globally, while the most vulnerable groups are the most affected.

Two options, not a third

Guterres stressed that the world stands before a “decisive moment” that requires a choice between a future governed by the rule of law or the logic of force. He explained that “Adhering to international law is more important than ever.”

At the conclusion of his speech, Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that international law provides a common framework for resolving conflicts peacefully, warning that weakening it means undermining global stability, while strengthening it means undermining global stability. “An investment in building a world governed by justice, not fear.”

He called for a renewed commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes, respecting the rulings of the International Court of Justice and implementing its advisory opinions, and adhering to the purposes and principles of United Nations Charter.