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Can international laws help prevent conflicts and ensure that disputes are resolved peacefully?

Irven McElmurray

International laws have proven to be a significant tool in preventing conflicts and ensuring that disputes between countries are resolved peacefully. The core principle governing international law is that all nations are equal before it, and no country has more power or influence than the other. The United Nations serves as the highest body governing international laws, and it comprises several committees and agencies that ensure the compliance of the laws by signatories.

One of the primary purposes of international laws is to promote and maintain international peace and security. Countries committing to international laws agree to settle disputes peacefully, and if they cannot resolve these disputes on their own, they depend on third-party dispute resolution mechanisms such as the International Court of Justice or the International Criminal Court.

In addition to the above, international laws also regulate, among other things, the use of force, trade, war crimes, and human rights. Treaties such as the Geneva Conventions restrict the use of force in war, while the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other treaties ensure the protection of individual rights.

Although international laws have been proven functional, their effectiveness is sometimes limited. Certain nations refuse to comply with international laws, often citing reasons such as cultural differences, national sovereignty, or domestic laws that conflict with international laws. For example, countries that are in conflict with each other may refuse to abide by a resolution that favors the other country.

Furthermore, multiple interests and interpretations of international laws can also hinder their implementation. Countries may interpret the laws differently and use this to further their interests. The enforcement of international laws can be challenging, especially if the signatories have different interpretations of the treaties.

Despite the challenges, however, international laws have played a significant role in ensuring that countries coexist peacefully and have become enshrined in the global consciousness. National governments have used international laws to create a framework for the settlement of disputes, improve human rights policies, regulate international trade, and reduce the use of force.

We can only hope that more countries will continue to embrace international laws and use them to resolve disputes peacefully. However, it is equally essential that nations continue to ensure their interpretation of international laws is in line with the principles of equality and justice governing international laws.

Overall, international laws are a crucial tool in preventing conflicts and ensuring disputes are resolved peacefully. While they face some challenges, their continued use and development remain key to a more peaceful and just world.