Speaking at the Peace Palace in The Hague, Guterres said violations of international law were increasingly visible at a time when the global system is under strain and power dynamics are shifting. He stressed that adherence to legal norms was “more important than ever” amid growing geopolitical tensions.

The commemorative session, attended by Willem-Alexander, highlighted both the legacy and current pressures facing the court, which adjudicates disputes between states. Guterres noted that the ICJ is currently handling a rising number of cases, reflecting both its relevance and the complexity of contemporary conflicts.

Recent high-profile proceedings include a case brought by South Africa against Israel alleging violations of the Genocide Convention in Gaza, as well as a landmark environmental advisory opinion issued last year that clarified states’ obligations on climate change and opened the possibility of reparations for non-compliance.

Despite its central role, Guterres said institutions such as the ICJ are increasingly being “questioned and challenged,” with erosion of respect for international law occurring not at the margins but “at the core” of the global system, including among states tasked with maintaining international peace and security.

He reiterated that ICJ rulings are legally binding under the UN Charter, even though the court lacks enforcement mechanisms, a limitation frequently cited by critics. He pointed to the court’s order directing Russia to halt its invasion of Ukraine, which was not followed, as an example of the gap between legal authority and political compliance.

Yuji Iwasawa echoed these concerns, warning of “troubling signs” of countries questioning multilateralism and the role of law in international relations. He said such trends place significant pressure on the global legal framework and underscore the fragility of the system.

Guterres framed the moment as a broader choice facing the international community between a rules-based order and one shaped by power politics, emphasizing that respect for international law remains a foundational obligation for all UN member states.