The Transformation of International Law into a Political Weapon

This article analyzes a significant crisis observed in the contemporary practice of international law — its transformation into a political instrument. The study examines the evolution of international law from its formation in the twentieth century to its transformation in the twenty-first century. Particular attention is given to three global challenges: double standards and selective justice in the application of international law, institutional fragmentation caused by the veto system within the United Nations Security Council, and the weakening of the global order resulting from powerful states evading accountability. These issues are illustrated through the cases of Crimea, Palestine, Kosovo, Libya, Syria, Iraq, Ukraine, the South China Sea, and Yemen. For each challenge, the article proposes practical solutions, including the establishment of independent international monitoring mechanisms, the development of a universal code of application principles, the strengthening of regional judicial systems, the introduction of a “responsible veto” concept, and the expansion of universal jurisdiction. The article also presents a roadmap encompassing short-, medium-, and long-term strategic measures. The politicization of international law is not inevitable and can be addressed through institutional reforms, political will, active civil society engagement, and multilateral cooperation.

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