UN Sec-Gen Warns of 'Law of the Jungle' Replacing Global Law

January 27, 2026 | 11:13 am

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Monday that the global order is eroding as the supremacy of international law gives way to what he termed the "law of the jungle."

While calling for renewed commitments to multilateralism and accountability, Guterres emphasized that "the rule of law is the foundation for global peace and security" during a UN Security Council open debate titled "Reaffirming the International Rule of Law: Pathways to Reinvigorating Peace, Justice and Multilateralism."

As reported by Anadolu, the Portuguese politician reminded the assembly that UN member states adopted "the Pact for the Future" in 2024, which included a pledge "to act in accordance with international law and fulfill obligations in good faith," yet he cautioned that "words are not being matched with action."

"Around the world, the rule of law is being replaced by the law of the jungle. We see flagrant violations of international law and brazen disregard for the UN Charter," he declared.

Referring to conflicts "from Gaza to Ukraine, from the Sahel to Myanmar, in Venezuela and elsewhere," he pointed out that "the rule of law is being treated as an à la carte menu."

He stressed that states are violating international law "with impunity through the illegal use of force, the targeting of civilian infrastructure, human rights violations and abuses, the illegal development of nuclear weapons, unconstitutional changes of government, and the denial of lifesaving humanitarian aid."

"These violations set dangerous precedents, encouraging other countries to do what they want, instead of what they are required to do under international law," he warned.

While underscoring the unique authority of the Security Council, Guterres noted, "In an era crowded with initiatives, the United Nations Security Council stands alone in its Charter-mandated authority to act on behalf of all Member States on questions of peace and security."

"The Security Council alone adopts decisions binding on all," he said. He further highlighted that "no other body or ad hoc coalition can legally require all member states to comply with decisions on peace and security."

He also added that "only the Security Council can authorize the use of force under international law, as set out in the Charter."

"Its responsibility is singular. Its obligation is universal," he remarked, while noting that reforms to the council remain crucial.

Guterres further emphasized the necessity to ensure accountability and end impunity, alongside a call for robust support for international justice.

"The International Criminal Court, the central institution of the international criminal justice system, must be able to operate independently. There can be no sustainable or just peace without accountability," he concluded.

Read: Israel Agrees to Reopen Rafah Crossing Under Strict Conditions

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