The Interview Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary General: The threat to international law from power
Jan 21, 2026
In this engaging conversation, Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General since 2017, discusses urgent threats to international law from the law of power. He emphasizes the need for reform in the UN Security Council to maintain its legitimacy amid global challenges. Guterres highlights the rise of geopolitical impunity and declining humanitarian efforts, urging for multilateral cooperation. He also addresses the situation in Gaza and the importance of adapting the UN to a multipolar world, while expressing hope for future international collaboration.
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Multilateralism Under Assault
- Antonio Guterres warns multilateralism is under attack as countries prefer power over law.
- He says global problems need stronger, reformed international cooperation to be solved.
Law Of Power Replacing Law Of Law
- Guterres argues the "law of power" is replacing international law, citing US policy trends.
- He warns this shift undermines multilateral solutions and respect for international norms.
UN Staff Sacrifice In Gaza
- Guterres recounts UN staff risking and losing their lives delivering humanitarian aid, including 400 killed in Gaza.
- He uses this to underline the UN's frontline role despite limited leverage.