NEW YORK, April 17, 2026 (WAFA) – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres stressed on Friday that respect for rulings of the International Court of Justice is not optional, but binding under the United Nations Charter.
In his speech before the ICJ marking 80 years since its establishment, Guterres said that “this Court continues to be a guarantor that sovereignty and equality are not mere words on paper,” adding that it is a reminder that even overwhelming strength cannot, and must not, replace legal obligation.
He said that “the force of law must always prevail over the law of force,” stressing the need to uphold international law and ensure compliance with its rulings.
Guterres warned of growing violations of international law and the erosion of trust in international institutions, stating that, “Violations of international law are unfolding before our eyes. Military operations trample the basic rules that govern conflict. Humanitarian obligations are ignored.”
Moreover, he stressed that the rules of international law that protect the UN are violated, while the ICJ and other justice institutions are increasingly questioned and challenged.
“This erosion is not happening at the margins of the international system. It is happening at its core – including by States entrusted with unique responsibilities for the maintenance of international peace and security,” he said, warning against the consequences.
“When the law of force replaces the force of law, instability becomes contagious,” he said.
He stressed that the world stands at a critical moment requiring a choice between a future governed by the rule of law or by the logic of force.
Guterres urged countries to strengthen international law, recommit to the peaceful settlement of disputes, respect ICJ judgements, follow through on its advisory opinions and uphold the UN Charter.
T.R.
