Politis

Guterres Warns: 'Rule of Law is Being Replaced by the Law of the Jungle'

Published January 26, 2026, 19:16
Guterres Warns: 'Rule of Law is Being Replaced by the Law of the Jungle'

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the rule of law worldwide is being replaced by the “law of the jungle” during an open Security Council meeting on the implementation of international law. He stressed that the rule of law is fundamental to global peace and security and forms the heart of the UN Charter. Guterres highlighted that the UN has contributed to preventing a third world war for the past 80 years, based on rules prohibiting the use of force. However, he expressed concern over “flagrant violations of international law” observed in various parts of the world, such as in Gaza and Ukraine. The UN Secretary-General denounced that international law is being treated “as an à la carte menu,” with states violating rules with impunity, through the use of force, targeting of civilian infrastructure, and violations of human rights. He called on states to uphold their commitments and emphasized that the principles of the UN Charter are not optional. Finally, Guterres underscored the central role of the Security Council in upholding the Charter and the need for reform to strengthen its representation and effectiveness.