UN Chief Guterres Criticizes Global Leaders for 'À la Carte' Approach to International Law

UN Secretary General António Guterres condemned nations for selectively adhering to international laws, arguing that such actions compromise global order. As he enters his final tenure year, he emphasized the need for unwavering commitment to the UN Charter. Guterres highlighted recent geopolitical tensions to underscore the dire need for cooperation.

In a searing address to the 193-member General Assembly, UN Secretary General António Guterres denounced the practice of selectively adhering to international laws, likening it to choosing dishes from an 'à la carte' menu. This approach, he argued, undermines the global order and sets a "perilous" precedent.

With recent geopolitical tensions, such as US military actions in Venezuela and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, serving as a backdrop, Guterres stressed the urgent need for global cooperation. As he approaches the final year of his tenure, he reaffirmed his commitment to the UN Charter and its principles.

Guterres expressed grave concerns about the erosion of international law, highlighting rampant inequality and the influence of powerful elites. He warned that these dynamics threaten to disrupt global cooperation, urging countries to uphold the UN Charter's "prix fixe" values to safeguard peace, human rights, and sustainable development.

(With inputs from agencies.)