Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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January 26, 2026 UN
Secretary-General António Guterres, speaking Monday at the UN Security Council open debate on strengthening the international rule of law, said that peace, justice and effective multilateralism depend directly on states fulfilling their obligations under the UN Charter and international law.
He recalled that the principle of the rule of law underlies the entire system of international security created after the Second World War.
According to the UN chief, for 80 years International law has helped humanity avoid another world war and mitigate the consequences of numerous regional conflicts. This system, he emphasized, is binding on all states and is based on respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of countries.
Blatant violations
The Secretary-General recalled that in 2024, UN member states adopted Pact for the Future, reaffirming his commitment to international law. However, today, he warned, the situation is rapidly deteriorating.
"All over the world, the rule of law is being replaced by the law of the jungle," Guterres said.
He pointed to "flagrant violations of international law and brazen disregard for the UN Charter" – from the unlawful use of force and attacks on civilian infrastructure to the denial of vital humanitarian aid. Such actions, he said, create dangerous precedents and undermine trust between states.
"From Gaza to Ukraine, from the Sahel to Myanmar, in Venezuela and elsewhere, international law is increasingly being treated like a menu, with only the most convenient options being chosen," the UN chief noted.
Responsibility of UN Security Council members
Guterres emphasized the special role of the Security Council, calling it the only body empowered by the UN Charter to make decisions on peace and security matters binding on all states. Therefore, he noted, reforming the Security Council is essential to enhance its representativeness and effectiveness.
The Secretary General identified three key areas of action.
First, all states must fulfill the obligations they have undertaken: “The purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations are not optional.”
Secondly, he called for more active use of the mechanisms for peaceful settlement of disputes provided by the UN Charter—negotiations, mediation, and arbitration—and for strengthening cooperation with regional organizations to prevent conflicts. Peace, he added, is impossible without investment in development and the fight against poverty, inequality, and corruption.
Third, Guterres emphasized the importance of independent justice and accountability. He called on states to recognize the compulsory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice and to ensure the independent operation of the International Criminal Court.
In concluding his speech, the Secretary-General also recalled the role of UN Security Council members, who, he said, “bear a special responsibility to set an example” in the matter of compliance with the provisions of the UN Charter.
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