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Guterres: 'Rule of Law Replaced by Law of the Jungle'

Published January 26, 2026, 18:10
Guterres: 'Rule of Law Replaced by Law of the Jungle'

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the importance of the rule of law for global peace and security during a Security Council session, noting that it has prevented a third world war for eighty years. He highlighted that the international system is based on rules prohibiting the use of force and binding all states. However, he warned of the growing abandonment of the rule of law in various parts of the world, such as Gaza and Ukraine, where blatant violations of international law are occurring. Guterres condemned the selective application of international law, with states violating rules with impunity through the use of force, targeting civilian infrastructure, and violating human rights. He pointed out that humanitarian aid is often denied to those in need. He called on states to uphold their international commitments, emphasizing that the principles of the UN Charter are not optional. International security, according to the Secretary-General, requires trust and respect for international law. Finally, Guterres acknowledged the central role of the Security Council in upholding the Charter, but stressed the need for reform to enhance its representation and effectiveness.