Key Observations

• Violations of the UN Charter and international law: including the illegal use of force, attacks on civilian infrastructure, human rights abuses and the denial of life-saving humanitarian aid etc. E.g. Gaza, Ukraine
• "à la carte menu" approach: Selective adherenceto international law by States, setting precedents that potentially encourage impunity and erode trust among nations.

About International Law

•  It defines the legal responsibilities of States in their conduct with each other, and their treatment of individuals within State boundaries.
  • The term ‘International law’ was first coined by Jeramy Bentham.
• It also regulates the global commons, such as the environment and sustainable development, international waters, outer space, global communications and world trade.
• Significance of International law: 
  • For smaller and less-powerful countries: Promises equal treatment, sovereignty, dignity, and justice.
  • For powerful countries: Acts as ‘guardrails,’ defining what is acceptable especially in times of disagreement, division and conflict.

Priorities for Action in upholding international law

• Upholding UN Charter: Countries should honour the commitments under the UN Charter including safeguarding human rights and respecting the sovereign equality of States.
• Peaceful Dispute Settlement: Use tools of negotiation, mediation and judicial settlement, alongside stronger partnerships with regional organizations.
• Greater reliance on independent courts and tribunals: Including the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and stronger support for international criminal justice.