UN Transcripts — https://transcripts.un.org/en/sc/10096/3 (Resumed) Reaffirming international rule of law: Pathways to reinvigorating peace, justice and multilateralism - Security Council, 10096th meeting — Security Council — 27 January 2026 Language: en Automatically generated transcript — may contain errors. Not an official United Nations record. --- SC · President [0:05]: The 10,096 meeting of the Security Council is resumed. I wish to remind all speakers to limit their statements to no more than three minutes in order to enable the Council to carry out its work expeditiously. The flashing light on the microphone will prompt the speakers to bring their remarks to a close after three minutes. I'll now give the floor to the representative of Nigeria. Nigeria [0:42]: Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, let me on behalf of my delegation, congratulate you, Somalia, on assuming the Presidency of the Security Council for this month and for the change choice of this critical theme. We also thank the Secretary General for the insightful briefings. Mr. President, Nigeria views the international rule of law as a bedrock of our collective security and the primary defense against the tyranny of the strong over the weak. We meet today at a time when the fabric of international law is fraying. The erosion of this norm is not accidental, but the direct result of selectivity and the prioritization of geopolitical expediency over legal principles. However, international rule of law remains the only enduring anchor for global stability in an era defined by shifting geopolitical tides and complex security crises. The effectiveness of the United nations depends on the seamless coordination of its principal organs. We must move beyond the approach where the Security Council, the General assembly and ECOSOC operate in isolation. Nigeria therefore advocates for a strengthened nexus between peace, development and human rights. Emerging threats to the rule of law, ranging from terrorism and unconstitutional changes of government to the weaponization of cyberspace, require agile and regional specific responses. Nigeria continues to advocate for the primacy of regional arrangements such as ECOWAS in West Africa in reinforcing the rule of law. Nigeria has further taken the lead in the regional partnership for democracy. Accordingly, we urge the Council to provide predictable sustainable financing for Africa led peace enforcement operations which are often the first line defenders of the rule of law. Mr. President, the security Council's mandate on peacekeeping must be synchronized with the development work of ECOSOC and the peace building architecture. Particularly bearing in mind that there can be no rule of law without resource for development. Sadly, the most significant barrier to coherence is the chronic underfunding of the primary rule of law assistance. Nigeria reaffirms that the ultimate expression of the rule of law at the international level is the democratization of this very Council. We cannot claim to uphold justice while perpetuating the historical injustice of Africa's exclusion from the permanent category of the Council. We reiterate that the current structure of this Council is an anachronism, a reformed council including permanent seats for Africa with veto power is essential to restore the legitimacy and rule of law of the UN system. True multilateralism demands that the rule of law applies equally to the weak and the strong. Nigeria stands ready to work with all nations to build a system where might does not make right, but where right is the only mind we acknowledge. Thank you, Mr. President. Chair [4:01]: I thank the representative of Nigeria for his statement and now give the floor the representative of United Arab emirates. United Arab Emirates [4:09]: Thank you, Mr. President. I welcome the opportunity to offer remarks on this important topic. I thank Secretary General Guterres, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Yousef and the President of the African Institute of International Law, Judge Abdul Kawi Yusuf, for sharing their valuable insights and and expertise. From the outset, I would like to strongly reaffirm the UAE's commitment to upholding the international rule of law. Promoting the rule of law is more than a moral obligation. It is a practical necessity for harmonious cooperation within and among States. It is the cornerstone of accountability, a principle at the heart of our international system. Without the rule of law, justice becomes a selective tool, peace is hard to sustain, and multilateralism falls. In this context, I would like to make three points. First, upholding the rule of law requires political will, especially at times of heightened geopolitical tension. Member States actions should be guided by the UN Charter. States and relevant UN organs must respond appropriately in the face of any violations of bedrock principles of international law, regardless of the interests of regions affected. To do otherwise risk tearing the delicate fabric of our multilateral system. The Security Council should uphold international law in a consistent manner and guard against the use of the veto in cases where its use would undermine international law. Second, the principle of the peaceful settlement of disputes must remain paramount whenever contentions arise between States. In such cases, States are provided with a range of dispute resolution mechanisms, including recourse to the International Court of Justice. The high volume of advisory proceedings and contentious cases handled by the Court reflects the confidence States place in the Court's ability to discharge its mandate effectively. However, Member States should approach the Court responsibly and not burden it with frivolous cases. Finally, it is critical that States States are able to strengthen their capacity to ensure that international legal obligations are properly understood and upheld. When Member States come together to establish rules or standards, the ability of States to meet those standards is not always considered. We have a shared interest in ensuring that States can meet their legal obligations because non compliance leads to erosion of the rule of law. As such, the international Community should continue providing technical support to States in line with their national priorities, Mr. President, when they are well aligned, international law and politics reinforce each other. States shape international law not only through treaty making, but through the political choices they make to uphold the international rule of law. It is therefore incumbent on all Member States to demonstrate their full and consistent support for international law. I thank you. Speaker 5 [7:10]: I thank the representative of United Arab Emirates for her statement and now give the floor to representative of Armenia. Armenia [7:20]: Mr. President, I'd like to thank the Somalian Presidency for holding this open debate, as well as briefers for their insightful contributions. Last year, the world celebrated the 80th anniversary of the UN establishment and the adoption of of its Charter, which highlights the determination to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained. Nowadays, we witness proliferation of situations endangering international peace and security, emerging humanitarian crisis, grave violation of human rights, terror, deepening inequalities and a staggering lack of trust gulfing global affairs further exacerbated by instrumentalization of emerging technologies for unlawful purposes. As emerging technologies increasingly shape conflict dynamics, safeguarding the rule of law in digital and information spaces has become an urgent task. Malicious use of artificial intelligence, disinformation and hate speech which can fuel instability and erode social cohesion. International cooperation is required to ensure that technological innovation remains aligned with international law, human rights and ethical standards. Against this sobering backdrop, steadfast compliance at both national and international levels with the principles of supremacy of the law, inequality before the law, accountability, fairness, legal certainty and legal transparency is fundamental interest of all nations living within a shared legal order. Mr. President, the rule of law in international relations cannot be maintained without full respect for the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. In particular, the sovereign equality of all Member states, the obligation to refrain from the threat of use of the territorial integrity or political independence of any states, and to settle international disputes exclusively by peaceful means. Armenia has consistently supported international legal mechanism to prevent violations of international law and to ensure accountability and access to justice. In light of deepening security crisis and the recent history in our region. But where Armenia has faced serious challenges concerning the maintenance of peace and upholding of international law, functional mechanism for early warning and early action are as urgent as ever. Mr. President, political will coupled with sustained efforts has translated into tangible progress towards peace in our region, as evidenced by signing of the joint declaration between the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan witnessed by the President of the United States States and the initializing of the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan on 8th of August last year. The crossroad of peace initiative of Armenia and its integral component TRIP Connectivity Project will boost stability, prosperity and people to people contact by unlocking the transit potential of the South Caucasus and expanding trade and connectivity in the region and beyond. Further to this agreement, Armenia's Foreign Minister Arat Mirzoian and US Secretary of State Marco Rupio signed a TRIP Implementation Implementation Framework in Washington on 13th of January which underscores the importance of sovereignty, territorial integrity, national jurisdiction and reciprocity to the successful implementation of this project and its ultimate objective of fostering the institution of peace in the South Caucasus. Mr. President, experience has shown that respect for the rule of law is not an abstract, abstract concept, but a practical foundation for sustainable peace. Where legal principles are upheld, including sovereignty, territorial integrity, viability of internationally recognized borders and peaceful dispute settlement, confidence building becomes possible, dialogue advanced and peace agreements gain durability. President [11:31]: I thank you, I thank the representative of Armenia and now give the floor the representative of Namibia, Namibia [11:41]: President Namibia congratulates Somalia on its Presidency of the Council in this month of January and we commend you for the convening of this open debate, the promotion and strengthening of the rule of law and the maintenance of international peace and security. The founders of the United nations established our organization to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war based on the principles of tolerance and peaceful coexistence through the adherence to relevant norms, conditions and rules. International law and the respect thereof was meant to ensure justice and the fulfillment of any obligations arising from treaties, and the opposite is true in that a lack of respect for the rule of law at national, regional or international levels would breed injustice and other undesirable outcomes. According to the UN Secretary General's 2023 Vision for the Rule of Law, the world was experiencing a global decline in respect for the rule of law and such a decline increases repression, political polarization, corruption, inequality, the instrumentalization of justice institutions, crime, terrorism, the manipulation of media and attacks on human rights, amongst others. According to the UN Global Risk Report 2024, a rule of law collapse is a breakdown in international legal regimes and widespread disregard for basic human rights which really equates to anarchy, chaos, injustice and increased conflict. Therefore, in order to strengthen efforts to build peaceful, just and inclusive societies and effective, accountable, inclusive institutions at all levels, Member States reaffirmed through the September 2024 Pact of the Future Action 7 their commitment to upholding the rule of law. The rule of law is truly the basis for international cooperation, understanding and political dialogue. This Global reaffirmation in 2024 was therefore necessary to chart a way for renewed strength to build a peaceful, prosperous and just world with people at its center. We must maintain this momentum of collective trust in a rules based order and strengthen multilateralism to generate lasting solutions to conflict development challenges, including at the regional level. The Security Council must continue to play its role towards the maintenance of international peace and security as mandated by the UN Charter, including by ensuring the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2719. We remember a situation in Sudan. This situation must not be forgotten. The Council must further ensure the equal rights and the self determination of peoples around the world, as well as deter threats or the use of force by States against the territorial integrity or political independence of other states. It is essential that the Council not fail in its duty to enforce the international rule of law, lest its credibility be questioned. In this regard, the reform of the UN Security Council should be prioritized and expedited to further strengthen the Council legitimacy in maintaining international peace and security. Africa's special case in this regard must be translated into reality. The time is now. SC · President [15:30]: I thank the representative of Namibia and now give the floor to representative of djibouti. Djibouti [15:37]: Thank you, Mr. President. Congratulations to Somalia for assuming the Presidency of the Council for the month of January and for masterfully conducting its proceedings. We thank the Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Chairperson of the African Union, Mr. Mohamud Ali Yusuf, as well as Judge Abdel Abdelkawi Yusuf for the briefing. At the outset, Djibouti reiterates his profound gratitude to Somalia for conveying this crucial debate which struck at the core of the United Nations Charter. This reflection is not only timely but also imperative for the survival of a credible multilateral system. We have to stand up and stand together to defend and strengthen the rules based on order. We are all especially small states, threatened by a return to an older order devoid of justice, where there is no rule of law. In my Triumphs over right, Mr. President, Somalia teaches the importance of the inseparability of peace and justice and the multilateralism from the rule of law. Djibouti reaffirms its full solidarity with President Hassan Sheikh and the entire Somali leadership in their endeavor to build a more peaceful Somalia, deepen political dialogue, strengthen the rule of law despite persistent security challenges, and protect the unity and sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia. Djibouti reiterates its deep commitment to the principles we are discussing today. Like many all like many small states, Djibouti has historically been a champion of the Charter and international law. It is not difficult to see why small states have the most to lose by a lawless world where larger, stronger states can dominate smaller ones. Djibouti, by geographic destiny and political choice, has become a hub for international cooperation, a platform for regional dialogue and a staunch contributor to collective security. We host vital multilateral presences and have consistently chosen the path of mediation and peaceful settlement of dispute in our region. Mr. President, the system we so carefully built 80 years ago is under severe strain today. We witness violations of the most fundamental principles of international law, and they are so egregious that they impact the entire international community wherever they occur. When the powerful principles enshrined in our resolutions are applied unevenly and when accountability is a sword for some and a shield for others, trust evaporates. This erosion of trust is not just a political inconvenience, it is a poison killing peace efforts. Djibouti would like to emphasize three pathways for the reinvigoration of the rule of law, for the realization of peace, justice and multilateralism. First, consistency. The UN charters principles are an indivisible whole. We cannot champion sovereignty, territorial integrity and respect for human rights in one context only to see them blatantly violated in another with a muted or paralyzed response. Indeed, double standard is no standard. We should pay equal attention to the conflict in Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, terrorism in the Sahel and in the Home to cite justification few situations. The United Nations Security Council should consistently condemn actions which would dismember or impair totally or in part the territorial integrity or political unity of sovereign and independent states as expressly provided in the Declaration on Principles of International Law Concerning Friendly Relations and Cooperation among States in accordance with the Charter of the United nations annexed to GA Resolution 2625. Second, reinvigoration requires empowered equitable multilateralism with regional organization as its cornerstone. The concept note rightly highlights the peaceful settlement of disputes in Africa. We have made a courageous turn towards judicial and political settlement through the International Court of Justice, regional courts and bodies like IGAD and the African Union. In addition is the growing national mediation support systems. This growing trust in rules based resolution is our most precious asset. The African Union is not a bystander. Its framework must be supported and amplified, not sidelined. We must finally breathe life into Chapter eight of the Charter forging a genuine partnership where Security Council action reinforces and empowers African led solutions. National efforts towards peace through mediation deserve stronger engagement and encouragement. Third, we must courageously confront justice deficit. The powerful Declaration on the Rule of Law is unequivocal. Impunity is intolerable when the ICJ issues provisional measures. These are not suggestions. They are legal obligations owed to the entire international community. The rule of law becomes a hollow incantation if we do not back our words with concrete deeds to hold law breakers fully accountable. This Council's credibility hinges on on its consistency in demanding compliance with international law, including humanitarian and human rights law, in every context, without exception or favor. In conclusion, Mr. President, reinvigorating support for the rule of law at both the domestic and international levels is a foundational necessity for global stability. From Djibouti's experience as a haven for dialogue and a beacon of stability in our region, we have witnessed both the devastating cost of the rule of law's absence and the transformative hope its consistent applications brings. The rule of law prevents the law of the jungle and fosters the peace of nations. Djibouti calls on all members of this Council and indeed the General assembly to have the courage to to follow the rule of law consistently and collectively. I thank you, Mr. President. Speaker 11 [22:40]: I thank the representative of Djibouti for his statement and now give the floor. The representative of Qatar. Qatar [22:49]: Thank you, Mr. President. I congratulate Somalia on assuming the Presidency of the Council and we express our appreciation for convening this important meeting. We thank His Excellency, the Secretary General, His Excellency the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Judge Yusuf for their valuable briefings. This debate is taking place as we mark eight decades since the founding of the United nations. An opportune moment to reaffirm our collective commitment to the international rule of law as a cornerstone of international peace and security and of multilateralism in the face of protracted conflicts and the various violations of the UN Charter and international law. This requires rebuilding trust in the international rule of law as well as adherence to international obligations and respect for the principles of the Charter, particularly sovereign equality of states, territorial integrity of states, non interference in their internal affairs, the prohibition of the use or threat of force, and the respect of human rights and right to self determination. Compliance with international obligations is not only a legal requirement, but also also is essential for mutual trust among States and for strengthening multilateralism in the service of peace, stability, justice and dignity for all states without exception. We need to reaffirm these commitments. We also need to recommit to Charter's principle regarding the peaceful settlement of disputes, a path that Qatar has consistently supported through dialogue, mediation and diplomacy, which we consider the most effective and sustainable means of preventing and resolving conflicts. Our experience shows that inclusive political solutions, grounded international law are essential for achieving lasting peace. Therefore, we underscore the importance of preventing emerging threats, addressing them early, resolving conflicts and consolidating sustainable peace. In all these contexts, enhancing cooperation with regional organizations is vital. All efforts must remain consistent with the principles of national sovereignty for the UN to remain capable of fulfilling its mandate and restoring trust in multilateralism. We support the UN reform agenda, revitalizing the work of the General assembly and Security Council reform. We also support efforts at advancing global governance in a way that is more inclusive and responsive to today's realities. In conclusion, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the international system grounded in law, justice and cooperation, in line with the UN Charter and international law. As the UN enters its ninth decade, let us seize this opportunity to renew our collective pledge to uphold the Charter and strengthen the rule of law as a cornerstone for a world that is more peaceful, just and secure. Thank you, Mr. President. President [25:43]: It I thank the representative of Qatar for her statement and now give the floor the representative of Republic of Korea. Republic of Korea [25:55]: Thank you, Mr. President. I also thank the bleepers for their insightful briefings and I thank Somalia for convening this meeting on this time and important topic. Mr. President, since its inception eight years ago, the United nations has served the central forum for multilateralism and sustaining international peace and security. The Security Council and other UN bodies have consistently sought in times of crisis to promote dialogue and prevent the escalation of conflict based on shared norms. Yet, as the capability of multilateral mechanisms to address surging armed conflict and blatant violation of international law in a timely and effective manner have weakened, trust in UN and in multilateralism itself has been strained. This sense of crisis is one we share today. Mr. President, compliance with international law and UN Charter is another matter of choice. Indeed, it is a binding commitment that we have all voluntarily undertaken. It constitutes the foundation of the trust and the bedrock of peace in the international community. Where differences arise, they must be resolved through the peaceful means, not through the threat of or use of force. The responsibility of a Security Council is clear under the Charter. The Council has a central role ensuring peaceful settlement of dispute in accordance with the international law, particularly when national peace and security and rule over are challenged by each erosion. We have of course witnessed instances in which the Council has faced constraint in fully discharging this role due to the use or threat of the veto. That said, it does not mean that solutions lie outside the Charter based framework. Rather, the Council can strengthen its capacity by making full and faithful use of the tools universally provided to it. Under the UN Charter, the Council can make more active use of the means available under Chapter six of the Charter. It can support preventive diplomacy and the good offices of the Secretary General. And it can strengthen the reporting and fact finding mechanisms to ensure discussions are grounded in facts. The peaceful settlement of dispute grounded in Charter and international law is a shared responsibility of all Member States. Ultimately, revitalization of multilateralism depends on our collective will to implement a rule of law over the rule of force. In conclusion, Mr. President, we all recognize the seriousness of the challenges facing multilateralism rule of law Today, the Republic Korea firmly believes that international law and rule of law must remain our cornerstone. Compasses. Now is precisely the time to reaffirm why we undersign these core principles in the first place. I thank you. President [29:34]: I thank the representative of the Republic of Korea and now give the floor the representative of Argentina. Argentina [29:42]: A good afternoon to you all. Mr. President, first and foremost, I wish to thank Somalia for convening this timely open debate. It's timely in the current international landscape. The debate allows Member States to reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and to the quest for a lasting peace. Moreover, and has already been stated by the President of Argentina, Xavier Milei, in his statements before the United nations, it is also crucial for we the Member States, to recognize that there is a crisis of credibility and effectiveness of the multilateral system in general. That crisis is stymying both its ability to overcome current challenges and its ability to address emergency situations which could ultimately lead to a breakdown of the PE or cause security at an international level to be eroded. Mr. President, Argentina maintains that the response to this reality is not less multilateralism. Rather, it is better multilateralism, one which is more effective and efficient, one which is action focused, and one which prioritises the promotion of peace and international security. And there, the rule of law must function as a bedrock and as a point of convergence among Member States. This is because it stands as one of the fundamental pillars of multilateralism and because it is a prerequisite for the peaceful coexistence of states. It is not an abstract principle, nor is it merely a rhetorical nicety. Rather, it is the framework which renders cooperation possible. It guarantees predictability in relations between countries and keeps trust in the multilateral system alive. This analysis is absolutely applicable to the United Nations. The real difficulties the United nations are facing are palpable. And we Member States who are committed to its revitalization and to the renewal of its effectiveness must take action in accordance with that view. Against that backdrop, the deeply rooted challenges in this context of deep challenges. Rather, both the Security Council and the General assembly are called upon to play a constructive role in reforming the rule of law. They must do that through consistent and predictable actions, actions which strictly adhere to the UN Charter. These actions must serve to build trust in international law as a common framework for collective action. Mr. President, turning now to justice, which features in the title of this open debate, in 1970, the General assembly adopted by consensus through resolution 2625, the Declaration on Principles of International Law Concerning Friendly Relations and Cooperation among States. In accordance with the United Nations Charter. This document clarified beyond a shadow of a doubt a set of principles which are the expression of the rule of law between nations. This Declaration established a milestone in the promotion of the rule of law and more specifically, in promoting the universal application of the principles enshrined in the charter. Resolution 2625 in Te Alia reiterated a principle that is of crucial importance to my country. It features in paragraph 6 of resolution 1514. It states, Any attempt aimed at partial or total disruption of national unity and territorial integrity of a State or a country is incompatible with the purposes and principles of the Charter. States obligations to peacefully resolve international disputes is a pivot of this normative architecture. Negotiation is the key means to solve disputes. In this context, my country underscores the need for parties to a dispute to in good faith heed. Appeals to negotiate with in order to peacefully resolve a dispute have been issued by the organs of this organization, including the General Assembly. Moreover, the parties to a dispute must refrain from engaging in unilateral actions which may breach the obligation of both parties to resolve the dispute by a peaceful means. President as we mark the 80th anniversary of the United nations, this debate offers an opportunity to renew our commitment to international rule of law. Reaffirming that rule of law is to reaffirm the importance of the Charter itself and of the ideals that this organization was built on. It is only through the respect for law, good faith cooperation and the peaceful resolution of disputes that we will be able to rebuild trust, strengthen multilateralism and move towards a more peaceful and more just international order. President [34:34]: Thank you. I thank the representative of Argentina and now give the floor to the representative of Tom. Türkiye [34:44]: Thank you, Mr. President. I also thank Secretary General and the briefers for their valuable insights. Mr. President, international community today confronts multiple crises that reflect growing erosion of the rule of law, peace and security, human rights and development. The three pillars of the UN cannot be sustained without unwavering respect for the international rule of law. Collective challenges to international peace and security demand a robust commitment to multilateralism. Selective accountability and impunity erode confidence in the international legal order and weaken its foundation. When peaceful settlement fails and unilateralism prevails, the cost is measured not only in instability, but in immense human suffering. On the 80th anniversary of the UN, we must remember that the Charter is not a historical document, but a living agreement among nations, a moral and a legal compass designed to steer humanity away from the tragedy of war toward the promise of peaceful coexistence. Mr. President, we commend the efforts of the UN over the past eight decades to uphold the international rule of law. Yet today, international rule of law faces one of its most serious threats since the founding of the un. Nowhere is the erosion of international law more visible and consequential than in Gaza and occupied Palestinian territories. Gaza today stands as a test case for international system. We reaffirm our firm commitment to the unity and authority of the UN system, to the binding nature of international law and to the absolute necessity of protecting civilians and humanitarian workers. We call for an accountability for violations of international law. We underscore our commitment to the security council resolution 2803 and its full implementation to ensure the rights of Palestinian people, including right to statehood. Furthermore, Turkey strongly rejects Israel's recent announcement recognizing Somaliland as an independent state. It undermines the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and non interference and risks instability at both regional and global levels. It constitutes a clear and serious violation of international law and the UN Charter. Mr. President, the war in Ukraine remains one of the most challenging and complex crises confronting the international rule of law and multilateralism. Since the onset of the conflict, Turkey has pursued a humanitarian and principled approach to help end the war and alleviate its devastating consequences. The direct talks Turkey hosted between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul contributed meaningfully to peace efforts and yielded concrete results, particularly on humanitarian issues. Turkey will continue its efforts toward achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, grounded in the fundamental principles of international law and UN Charter. Mr. President, with regards to the Law of the Sea matters, Turkey is committed to international cooperation, maritime security and the rule of law at sea, ensuring that our oceans remain safe, secure and accessible to all. We caution against the risks posed by erroneous interpretations of international law under the pretext of justifying maximalist claims, particularly with regards to maritime jurisdiction areas. Similarly, Turkey believes that any action in the seas, including exploitation of hydrocarbon resources, must fully respect legitimate and inherent rights of all relevant peoples and parties. Turkey attaches great importance to resolving maritime boundary issues in line with international law, principle of equity and relevant jurisprudence. Mr. President, UN's efforts to promote the rule of law requires sustained and collective effort from all member states. Turkey remains firmly committed to upholding international law and stands ready to contribute to a just, peaceful and international law based system. There can be no sustainable peace without justice and there can be no justice without respect for international law. Thank you. President [39:40]: I thank the representative of Turkey for his statement and now give the floor. Representative of Maldives. Maldives [39:48]: Thank you, Mr. President. I thank Somalia, President of the Council for January, for convening this debate. I also welcome Bahrain, Colombia, Congo, Latvia and Liberia as elected members of this council. Mr. President, people watching this debate are counting on more than our words. And that is why we are here. THE Mall this comes with a simple concern that the promises written into the Charter must still work when power is tempted to improvise. I'll make three points to show how we can keep that promise real. First, 80 years after the UN charter was adopted, the strain in the matrix system is visible in the daily record. Resolutions stall, violations are argued into normalcy standards tightened for some states and loosened for others. Then the trust breaks and the promise shows up fast. It promises it shaken up fast in shaken markets, imposed investments in development plans, pushback and instability spreads. The Council must restore confidence through consistency. That means restraint in the use of veto when genocide takes place. It also means a council that better reflects today's world because legitimacy is built in the room where decisions are made. When the Council cannot act, the General assembly must use its authority, including uniting for Peace, to carry the responsibility forward. Second, justice must function as a practical shield. Judgments of the International Court of Justice and International Criminal Court matters, but only when states act on them. When decisions, advisory opinions and arrest warrants are ignored or obstructed or punished. Small states hear the message first. They hear the load. They hear the law depends on leverage. That message travels. Accountability is the answer to impunity. It breaks the expectations that violations will be cost free. It raises the price of repeating the act. And it gives victims proof that the world noticed, recorded and responded. Silence in the face of a judgment has a sound. Third, the UN must operate like one system in real crisis. In too many emergencies, mandates are split, briefings arrive in parallel and responses land late. Field settings need shared early warnings. Just planning and one clear lead that connects prevention, mediation, peace operations, development, support and human rights work. The tools already exist, but only when they are used early and used together. That is how we can stop violence from becoming routine and how we can keep a fragile Peace from cracking. The Maldives will keep pressing for standards applied equally and for action measured in lives protected. I thank you. SC · President [43:22]: I thank the representative of the Maldives for his statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Rwanda. Rwanda [43:32]: Mr. President, Rwanda congratulates you on assuming the presidency of the Security Council and thanks Somalia for convening this timely debate. We also thank the Secretary General and the distinguished briefers we gather today to reaffirm the international rule of law. For Rwanda and for many developing countries, this is not just reaffirmation. It is a reminder of promises made but too often ignored, of concerns raised and dismissed, of warnings that went unheard. Much is said today about a crisis of the rule of law. For us, this is not new. Developing countries have long experienced selective justice, uneven accountability, and a system that punishes the weak while excusing the powerful. Too often, international law is invoked only when it serves certain interests. Mr. President, the erosion of the rule of law did not begin yesterday. It began when legality became conditional, when good faith was proclaimed but not practiced, and when the Charter was treated as optional. The problem before us is not a lack of law. It is a lack of courage to apply it fairly, consistently and universally. The Charter is clear. Sovereignty is not negotiable. Human dignity is not hierarchical. The prohibition on the use of force is not subject to convenience, and accountability is not optional. Yet this Council hesitates while civilians die. Persecution based on identity continues while debate replaces decisive action. Violations of international humanitarian law are discussed rather than condemned. Silence and selective enforcement erode trust faster than any weapon. At the same time, the legitimate security concerns of States, particularly those facing real and persistent threats, cannot be ignored or treated selectively. The rule of law is weakened when this Council acknowledges security imperatives in some contexts while dismissing them in others. Addressing such concerns consistently and without selectivity is not an exception to international law. It is a requirement of it. Mr. President, restoring confidence in the rule of law requires a discipline. First, discipline in acting in good faith. Commitments under international law must be honoured even when inconvenient. Second, discipline in peaceful dispute resolution. Trust in the law grows when institutions are respected and have their decisions implemented. Regional and sub regional organizations play a vital role in this regard. Fully utilizing the charter, including Chapter 7, and strengthening coordination among UN organs can help close gaps, reduce selectivity and enhance the effectiveness of peace and security efforts. Third, discipline in multilateral cooperation, cooperation that ignores development gaps, finances regional voices, or undermines local ownership does not strengthen rule of law, it weakens it. Mr. President. Finally, the Security Council must confront a difficult truth Its authority rests not only on the Charter, but on the perception that it acts fairly, decisively and consistently. Selective application, where some are punished and others excused, undermine confidence in this institution. As we approach the 80th anniversary of the Charter, the question is not whether the rule of law matters. The question is whether we are willing to apply it equally to all states, large and small. I thank you, Mr. President. President [47:16]: I thank the representative of Rwanda for this statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Democratic People's Republic of Korea [47:28]: Thank you, Mr. President. Today, the world is witnessing the heart of the harsh reality that the international legal system which was established and consolidated along with the founding of the United nations is facing crisis of collapse. It is very fortunate and timely that open debate of the Security Council is convened to discuss promotion and strengthening of rule of law and the maintenance of the international peace and security at a time when the fundamental principle proposed of the UN Charter which are cornerstone of international peace security, are being flagrantly violated. Last year, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United nations, the will and aspiration to defend world peace, justice and multilateralism were expressed more strongly than ever before. However, high profile acts of violating sovereignty that are being committed the beginning of the new year are plunging international community into unprecedented anxiety and fear. The threat and use of force as well as interference internal affairs by a handful of specific countries and forces against the sovereign state constitute fragmentary violation of the UN Charter and international law. Such behavior and malicious parameters that further feel instability and unpredictability in already tense international political environment. At this juncture, when international legal system is facing the risk of collapse, international community is closely watching what position is being taken by western country which had been denouncing even a legitimate exercise of the right to self defense by sovereign state accorded by UN Charter as a violation of international law and clamoring for so called international response. Today, the most urgent issues to be discussed on UN stage is heinous criminal behavior of the United States which is thoroughly violating all international legal principles for its own geopolitical self interest and causing chaos and disorder throughout the world. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea will in the future too actively join international efforts to oppose hegemony and injustice and will make responsible efforts to defend justice true and peace and promote creation of multipolar system. The international community must oppose and reject anti peaceful and irresponsible acts that are plunging entire world into the vortex of war, destruction and hostility with concerted action cast safeguarding international legal system and order centered on the UN Charter. Finally, at a meeting on 26th yesterday, United States Representative made ground lease accusation against KPRK by invoking fabricated and non existence cyber activities in an attempt to revive completely tattered and illegal sanction pressure mechanism. I strongly condemn and totally reject the remark made by United States Representative as an acceptable provocation against us. I thank you. SC · President [51:08]: I thank the representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea for this statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Lebanon. Lebanon [51:20]: Mr. President, some would wonder what we are doing here. Some would ask why we are meeting to discuss the rule of law, multilateralism and international law in a context where there is open disregard for them. That question is not misplaced. It reflects a reality many already perceive that rules do not restrain conduct and that violations carry limited consequence, if any. The international legal order does not rest on illusion. It rests on confidence. Confidence that rules apply equally, that obligations are taken seriously, and that violations will not be met with indifference. It is precisely this confidence that continues being eroded. And this erosion has direct consequences for peace and security. When states lose confidence in the consistent application of the law, deterrence weakens and force becomes a more attractive option than compliance. Disputes that could have been managed through law or diplomacy are instead resolved through pressure, escalation or violence. In this way, the erosion of confidence International law does not merely accompany instability, it actively produces it. This is not abstract. It's measured in lives shattered, families displaced and civilians exposed to violence without protection or remedy. In my region, the cost of diminished confidence in the law is borne daily by those who live under the weight of aggression, uncertainty and prolonged insecurity. Mr. President, this is why respect for core legal obligations matters. It's not a moral posturing, but a condition for predictability and restraint. Treaties, freely accepted, are not optional commitments. They are the legal infrastructure that allows States to to coexist without constant threat or recourse to force. Judicial institutions are essential to sustaining this confidence. Undermining the Court, dismissing its findings, or treating compliance as discretionary weakens the international legal order itself. Yes, reform is necessary to strengthen institutions, enhance effectiveness and address legitimate concerns. But reform cannot become a pretext for inaction or a justification for disregard. Mr. President, restoring confidence requires moving beyond words toward action that reflects the commitments we invoke. It requires consistent respect for legal obligations. It requires treating judicial decisions as authoritative determinations of the law to be respected and implemented. It requires consequences for violations rather than silence or selectivity. This Council and the United nations as a whole cannot remain a forum for declarations when the law is broken. Mr. President, speaking about the rule of law today may appear disconnected or even naive, but speaking is also a refusal to accept resignation as policy or indifference as inevitability. It is a way of affirming that disregard for the law will not be normalized and the suffering caused by its erosion will not be met with silence. Thank you. Speaker 27 [54:54]: I thank the representative of Lebanon for this statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Kenya. Kenya [55:03]: Mr. President, I congratulate Somalia on its presidency of the Security Council for the month of January, and thank you for convening this timely debate. I also thank the Secretary General Antonio Guterres, AU Chairperson and Judge Abdul Kawi Yusuf of the African Institute of International Law for the insightful briefings. We gather at a moment of real consequence for the international system. Two pertinent questions on relations among nations reverberate. First, will relations among nations continue to be governed by law, or are we steadily slipping toward a world governed by power? Second, will international rule of law continue to restrain the strong as much as it protects the weak? For eight years, the United Nations Charter anchored our collective belief in the idea that disputes should be settled by law, not force, by good faith, not expediency, and by equality, not hierarchy. This commitment has been reaffirmed repeatedly by this Council and by the General assembly as the foundation of peace, justice and multilateral cooperation. However, today there is a growing sense that these principles are being applied unevenly, fracturing multilateralism. Breaches of international laws and treaties persist and accountability appears selective and major conflicts remain unresolved. Mr. President, for Kenya, these issues are alarming. The international rule of law does not sustain itself. It survives only if we choose to defend it collectively and consistently to safeguard the future. We therefore call for the first respect for international rule of law. At its core, the legal framework for international rule of law requires that all states are equal, that the UN Charter, international humanitarian law, human rights law, and international criminal law are respected, and that disputes are resolved peacefully rather than by force. However, the framework is not being applied consistently. Second, on justice and accountability, peace cannot be sustained without justice. Accountability for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity should be a legal obligation and prerequisite for durable peace, not as a political choice laced with impunity that fuels cycles of violence. We therefore underscore the importance of independent investigations, evidence preservation, and cooperation with international and hybrid judicial mechanisms. Third, on upholding multilateralism, the United nations remains the epitome of multilateralism, with legal standing inscribed in its Charter and universal membership as such all its organs must reflect its universality. Kenya maintains that a system that excludes Africa from permanent representation of the Security Council cannot credibly claim universality. Reform of this Council, therefore, remains integral to the credibility of international law itself. Fourth, on maintenance of international peace and security, the Security Council must remain the primary forum for upholding pacific settlement of disputes as enshrined in Chapter 6 of the UN Charter, including mediation and judicial settlement. Further, restraint in the use of the veto, particularly in situations involving mass atrocities, is equally vital to restoring confidence in this Council. Additionally, Kenya encourages partnership between the United nations and regional organizations under Chapter 8. Regional efforts, when aligned with global legitimacy, can effectively uphold constitutional order and the rule of law. Mr. President. In conclusion, the international community must decide whether relations among nations will continue to be governed by law or increasingly by power. And the international rule of law remains the strongest common ground for managing differences and preventing conflicts. This Council carries a special responsibility that of ensuring that the rules we've collectively agreed are applied consistently, are respected universally, and defended without exception. I thank you. SC · President [1:00:39]: I thank the representative of Kenya for his statement and now give the floor to the representative of Costa Rica. Costa Rica [1:00:49]: Mr. President. Costa Rica congratulates Somalia on the way it has steered the work of the council this month. Mr. President. A context in which the international order is beset by significant tensions. In that context, it is crucial to reaffirm the international system rooted in law and multilateral institutions. The United Nations Charter establishes the fundamental legal framework which governs international relations. It is incumbent upon Member States to fully adhere to the provisions therein. With that in mind, allow me to make the following three comments. Firstly, the prohibition of the threat or use of force, the principle of good faith, and the obligation to resolve disputes via peaceful means are legal obligations entered into by States, and we must continue working to ensure that these obligations produce tangible, verifiable action. Complying with and upholding these obligations in a consistent way is vital for the stability of the international system and for the preservation of the sovereign equality between States. My second point. Accountability is a pivot in terms of preserving international legal architecture. Violations of international law must be be addressed in accordance with and consistently with the legal mechanisms provided for in our system. With that in mind, Costa Rica encourages States to consider recognizing the obligatory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice. We encourage States to abide by in good faith the legally binding decisions handed down that are relevant to them and to continue bolstering support to international justice and accountability mechanisms. My third point. In situations in which the Security Council does not succeed, in fully exercising its primary responsibilities pursuant to the Charter, the Organization itself has legal instruments provided for both in the Charter and in institutional practices that has been developed by its primary organs. The resolutions 375, Uniting for Peace and the advisory opinions of the ICJ, inter alia, can contribute to guiding contemplation and collective action in this regard, Mr. President, for small States, respect for international law is a crucial guarantee of sovereign equality and predictability. As such, multilateralism, international and international law remain vital to for the peaceful coexistence of states. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. SC · President [1:03:56]: President, I thank the representative of Costa Rica for his briefings and now give the floor. The representative of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia [1:04:08]: In the name of God, the merciful, the gracious. Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen. At the outset I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to the mission of the Federal Republic of Somalia for convening this meeting at a highly significant moment, as it comes immediately after the 80th anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Charter and at a time when the international system is experiencing unprecedented challenges. Strengthening the rule of law requires first, a sincere commitment to the principle of good faith in the implementation of international obligations as stipulated by Article 2 of the Charter and as affirmed in the 1970 Declaration on the Principles of International Law Concerning Friendly Relations. Good faith is not merely a moral value. Rather, it is a legal obligation that forms the cornerstone of credibility and stability in the international system. It is a preventative element that helps avert conflicts before they escalate. Second, the peaceful settlement of disputes must be the first option, not the last resort. Replacing force with law and resorting to peaceful means, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration and judicial settlement. All of this strengthens legitimacy and prevents the escalation of conflicts, which contributes to building a sustainable peace based on justice and not coercion. Third, one cannot speak of the rule of law without upholding the principle of the non use of force and the preservation of territorial integrity and the political independence of States. Despite challenges and imbalances, this principle remains one of the greatest achievements of the international system and must be defended and protected from any attempts at undermining it or selectively reinterpreting it. Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, Security Council bears a special responsibility here. Strengthening the rule of international law requires the Council to work in a manner that enhances confidence in its decisions and ensures consistency and transparency and avoids double standards. The Council should make more effective use of the Charter's preventive tools and mechanisms for peaceful settlement before situations slide into armed conflict. This requires activating provisions of the Charter that have not been sufficiently utilized and enhancing cooperation with inter regional organizations in accordance with Chapter 8 on the basis of partnership, complementarity and mutual respect and in a manner that supports their preventive and judicial roles and without undermining the sovereignty of States or the primary mandate of the Security Council. Here we note that improving coordination among different United nations organs and addressing structural, political, technical and financial obstacles that limit their effectiveness is an urgent necessity. Practical reforms that are rooted in realism and gradualism and that are focused on clarifying rules and avoiding duplication and enhancing institutional efficiency, these reforms can promote coherence and deliver tangible impact on the ground. Reaffirming the rule of international law is not an option. Rather, it's an existential necessity to maintain international peace and security and to preserve the legitimacy of the multilateral system itself. At this pivotal historic moment, and as the 80th anniversary of the Charter approaches, it is our collective responsibility to move from words to actions and from formal commitments to the fair and equal application of international law to apply to all with no exception. Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, in closing, we commend the Federal Republic of Somalia for its commitment to peaceful international engagement, constructive diplomacy and adherence to international law. We urge States to continue supporting diplomatic and legal measures those taken by Somalia to protect its sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability in accordance with international law. The Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirms the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. We reject the encouragement of separatist agendas which pose a threat that would increase tensions in an already unstable region. We stress that respect for international law, non interference in the internal affairs of States, and adherence to diplomatic norms are essential foundations for achieving regional and international stability. I thank you, Mr. President. SC · President [1:09:05]: I thank the representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for his statement and now give the floor the representative of Nepal. Nepal [1:09:15]: Mr. President, I thank the Presidency of Somalia for convening this crucial debate. I also thank the Secretary General and distinguished briefers for their comprehensive and insightful briefings. Mr. President, the international rule of law is fundamental to achieving a just, inclusive, equitable and peaceful global order. It is indispensable for maintaining global peace and security, safeguarding human rights, accelerating sustainable development, and fostering multilateral cooperation through which we together confront common global challenges. However, growing geopolitical competition, deepening conflicts, resurgent nationalism, rising protectionism, and increasing violations of human rights and international legal norms have severely undermined the international rule of law. The erosion of the international rule of law has frayed trust, placed multilateralism under severe Restraint undermined the credibility of our multilateral system and brought the stable and just international order we built together under unprecedented pressure. Excellencies against this backdrop, let me highlight a few points. First, we must reaffirm the primacy of the UNSUR as the cornerstone of a stable and just international order. The UN Charter and the 1970 declaration provide a legal and moral compass in ensuring sovereign equality, territorial integrity, political independence, non aggression and peaceful settlement of disputes, among others. We must uphold these principles, ensuring that they guide state behavior without exception or selectivity. Second, fulfillment of international obligations in good faith is a must because selective compliance erodes trust and weakens the very foundations of multilateral cooperation. Third, strengthening accountability mechanism is essential so that violations do not go unanswered and impunity does not take root. Fourth, we need a more inclusive and representative multilateral system that empowers all nations, especially the most vulnerable, to participate meaningfully in shaping and upholding global norms. Fifth, the Security Council, as the primary body responsible for the maintenance of international peace and security, must act decisively and impartially based on the merit of the issue, so as to uphold its credibility, restore confidence and collective security, and ensure timely and effective response to to threats to international peace. Similarly, close and coherent cooperation among Charter bodies, including the Security Council, the General assembly and the International Court of Justice, is crucial for upholding the international rule of law and strengthening the overall effectiveness of the United nations system. Mr. President, Nepal reaffirms the importance of upholding the rule of law as a foundation for peace, justice and and inclusive development. We are deeply committed to the principles and purposes of the UN Charter and abiding respect for international law, including international human rights and humanitarian law. We strongly believe in fostering global solidarity and partnership to promote a just, equitable and rule based international order. To conclude, Mr. President, the International rule of law is the bedrock upon which we can build a just, inclusive, equitable and peaceful society and international order. Nepal remains deeply committed to working with all Member States and the international community to advance the rule of law as a shared foundation for justice, peace, sustainable development and human dignity. I thank you. President [1:12:59]: I thank the representative of Nepal for his statement and now give the floor. The representative of Myanmar Myanmar [1:13:08]: thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, at the outset, I wish to congratulate Somalia on assuming the Presidency this month and thank you for convening this open debate. I also thank the Secretary Generals and other briefers for their insightful remarks. Myanmar aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Philippines on behalf of ASEAN. Mr. President, the rule of law is the cornerstone of international peace and security, protection of civilians, fundamental human rights and access to justice. However, principles of international law risk becoming legal Abstract if they are not practiced, in effect upheld by political will and reinforced by appropriate actions. It is imperative that the un, in particular the UN Security Council and the international community utilize all available tools at their disposal to revitalize international rules of law to promote peace, justice and multilateralism in the face of growing uncertainty and geopolitical complexities. Today's debate offers a timely opportunity to reflect on the progress and significant challenges in upholding the rule of law in our multilateral system. Mr. President, Myanmar reaffirms our commitment to the General Assembly's declarations on the rule of laws by which I quote, impunity is not tolerated for genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity or violations of international humanitarian law and gross violations of human rights law, and that such violations are properly investigated and appropriately sanctioned, including by bringing the perpetrators of any crimes to justice, end quote. Unfortunately, in my country Myanmar, the military junta has dismantled the rule of law by staging the 2021 illegal military coup, throwing out the elected government, destroying our democratic institutions and independent judicial systems, and committing international crimes against the civilian populations with total impunity. For years, over 7,700 people have been killed by the military junta, more than 3.6 million people have been displaced and almost 22 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Mr. President, the breakdown of the rule of law, the rise of corruption and the free balance of insecurity after the coup have also transformed the country into epic center of transnational organized crimes, including scam centres, cyber crimes, human and drug trafficking, thereby imposing a clear threat to regional and international peace and security. This threat continues. The haunters atrocities against civilians continue. So the people of Myanmar have repeatedly asked the United nations and the UN Security Council for their help to stop such atrocities. So far, the UN has failed the people of Myanmar. In this light, I wish to highlight the complementary role of the following UN organs and the international bodies, among others, in addressing the situation in Myanmar and saving lives. First, the UN Security Council, SMA organ responsible for maintenance of international peace and security. In the view of the people of Myanmar, the UN Security Council should be effective and credible enough to stop killing in Myanmar. Despite the UN Security Council resolution 2669 adopted in December 2022, the junta's atrocity has increased widely and systematically. The violence has further escalated across the country and transnational organized crimes has amplified. Clearly, the UN Security Council must pay close and serious attention to address the issue of Myanmar by adopting the follow up resolution and referring the situation of Myanmar to the ICC for ending the military's impunity and bringing justice to the people. Second, the UN General assembly, the convening power of the General assembly should be effectively utilized in bringing more attention to the crisis, as was the case of the High Level Conference on the situation of Rohingya, Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar last September. In the essence of a follow up Security Council resolution of Myanmar, the General assembly can serve as another avenue to explore further comprehensive measures after its Resolution 75287 adopted in June 2021. Third, the International Code of Justice As a principal judicial organ, the ICJ is an essential partner in the pursuit of a just and sustainable peace in Myanmar. The ongoing hearing on the case of the Gambia vs Myanmar at ICJ should be a vital circumstance to stop the military hunters and its leadership from committing international crimes and accordingly bring them to justice for their international crimes against the people. 4. The International Criminal Court the ICC prosecutor in November 2024 submitted the application to the ICC for an arrest warrant against the military junta chief for his crimes against the people. It has been over one year. No progress has been witnessed yet we express our disappointment over the lack of progress from the Court on the application. We urge the ICC to consider the prosecutor's application seriously and take action effectively now. Mr. President. Most importantly, coherence between these bodies and the Security Council remains crucial in bridging the gap in their respective processes and enhancing their impact. In conclusion, Myanmar emphasizes the most important of international justice mechanisms and multilateral institutions in strengthening compliance with the rule of law. Sham elections and manufactured votes will not erase the crimes of the military junta nor win the will of the people. The international community must act decisively now to break the cycle of decades long impunity enjoyed by the junta. The lives of the people of Myanmar are at stake. Their futures are on the line. I appeal to the UN and the Member States to reject the sham elections and support the people of Myanmar in their efforts to eradicate their military dictatorship and build a Federal Democratic Union. I thank you Mr. President. President [1:20:17]: I thank the representative of Myanmar for his statement and there is no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. The meeting is adjourned.