Rule of law, not power must guide international relations, says Minister Kubayi

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has reiterated that South Africa’s foreign policy is rooted in dialogue, collaboration and belief in the rule of law.

The Minister was delivering South Africa’s general statement at the 63rd Annual Session of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Organisation (AALCO) Conference held in Kampala, Uganda.

“South Africa’s foreign policy is grounded in

dialogue, cooperation and principled respect for international law. We are of the firm belief that the rule of law, not power, must guide international relations.

“The International Court of Justice remains central to the peaceful resolution of disputes, and the International Criminal Court to fight against impunity. But their authority depends on the willingness of States to comply. Where compliance is absent, all nations bear responsibility to act collectively to defend the international rule of law,” the Minister said.

Furthermore, South Africa will continue to advocate for a global multilateral architecture that reflects the voices of all the nations.

“Under the current architecture we have witnessed a growing tendency of disregard for international law and violation of human rights with impunity.

“The paralysis of the UN Security Council in the face of mass atrocities illustrates the need for comprehensive reform to make the Council more representative, democratic, and effective,” Kubayi said.

The Minister highlighted that the international legal architecture is “under threat” with a strained multilateral system.

“Punitive actions taken against judicial officers and international civil servants of the ICC from carrying out their legal mandates undermines the independence and integrity of the international mechanisms and are a direct affront to the principles of international justice.

“South Africa urges AALCO to galvanise the collective and unified voice of its membership in articulating and reaffirming our commitment to international law, the rule of law, multilateralism, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

“As lawyers, we must build the confidence and summon hope for peoples across the world that the international justice system is effective,” Kubayi said.

She urged members of AALCO to continue the work towards “equity and solidarity, resisting fragmentation of the international order”.

“In conclusion, Chair, the Bandung Principles of sovereignty, equality, and peaceful coexistence are under siege.

“Our presence here as States must amplify the collective voice of Asia and Africa at this critical juncture, not only in this hall, but also outside of it – defending the rule of law and advancing an international order founded on justice, equity, and human dignity,” Kubayi concluded. – SAnews.gov.za