It is trite to say that international law and respect for the rule of law are important. But word is cheap. Ultimately, what counts is action. In a recent ruling, the world's top court, the International Court of Justice, took a clear stand on Israel’s activities in Palestinian lands it has controlled since 1967. From the forced displacement and demolition of the homes of Palestinians, the building of settlements, the imposition of restrictions on the free movement of Palestinians, the annexation of large swathes of territory, and more, the ICJ ruled that Israeli conduct contravened international law. Alas, the ruling is non-binding and lacks enforcement power. Israel has also not faced sanctions or punitive actions from any of its allies, beyond nominal words of criticism, exposing the latter to charges of hypocrisy and double standards. If we want to see lasting and meaningful peace and justice in the Middle East, and the world writ large, meaningful actions must be taken to backstop and enforce international law. Taking a long-term enlightened approach, this is also the only feasible way to turn a loser in an international court judgment into a winner, as it too will reap the dividend that comes from peaceful development. #internationallaw #ruleoflaw #publicpolicy (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Thomas H.
5mo
It's disappointing. This reveals a concerning double standard and undermining the credibility of international legal mechanisms.
Choo Ann NGOH
5mo
The lack of enforcement is painfully true Royce Wee More so when the same things keep repeating 😱😅
PAUL LEE CDCS
5mo
Your point about turning a "loser" in an international court judgment into a "winner" through peaceful development is insightful. If international laws and judgments are to be effective, they must be supported by actions that promote constructive outcomes, including fostering environments where compliance with international norms leads to long-term benefits for all parties involved.
PJ Teo
5mo
The problem is always the enforcement part, despite the verdict/grand plans/vision, etc. That's why some say that it is always easy to talk but hard to do. Until this is properly implemented, I reckon things will remain status quo.
It’s a really challenging topic. When the International Court of Justice used the same yardstick for war atrocities by a superpower, the superpower retaliated by imposing sanctions on individuals holding responsible positions in the ICJ. Strong arm tactics.
Kent C.
5mo
If I may add, as much as an enlighten approach is a consistent approach. There are situations in the world that just aren’t handled similar with same standard. The Middle East is one sure place that deserves a lasting peace.
Beelee Chua
5mo
"How can we enforce it..." This is the usual phrase when one tries to apply law to the state of lawlessness.
I agree with everything you say, and also ask, how would one punish the specific people who are responsible? UN sanctions have never, in the history of the UN, ever been effective. It punishes the country, where only the ruling party is responsible. And if the ruling party cares about it's people or their opinions, they would not be there they are. The people suffer, the people that perpetuate the atrocity stays rich and powerful. And sometimes benefit even more from the sanction. What else can a toothless entity do? Send a strongly worded email the way they did with Russia?