Algerian Radio
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized on Friday that respect for the rulings of the International Court of Justice is not optional but mandatory under the UN Charter. He warned of the rise in international law violations and the erosion of trust in international institutions.
Speaking on the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), António Guterres stated: "Over eight decades, the ICJ has contributed to shaping the features of the modern international order." He noted that the Court's docket is "busier than ever before."
He considered this as clear evidence of the growing confidence in its authority and independence, calling for a renewed commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes, respect for the ICJ's rulings, adherence to its advisory opinions, and upholding the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.
He further emphasized that the Court remains the guarantor that the principles of sovereignty and equality do not become "mere ink on paper," asserting that "brute force, no matter its extent, must never replace legal commitment."
He noted that violations of international law are being exposed today, and that military operations are violating the fundamental rules of conduct in conflict, while humanitarian obligations—and even the rules protecting the United Nations itself—are being ignored. He warned that the institutions established to uphold justice are now facing "growing skepticism and challenges."
The UN Secretary-General warned in his speech that when the "law of force" replaces the "force of law," instability becomes a contagious phenomenon. He pointed out the cross-border spillover of conflicts and global economic crises, while the most vulnerable groups remain the hardest hit.
