Experts Discuss the Future of International Law at the "Shaping the Future" Symposium
The "Shaping the Future" International Symposium at the National Center "Russia" hosted a roundtable discussion on the "Future of International Law." Participants explored topics such as the concept of a rules-based order, the effective regulation of state relations, and the evolving role of international law in a multipolar world.
Rethinking International Law
Ekaterina Kopylova, Advisor to the Presidential Directorate for Public Projects of the Russian Federation, moderated the discussion. She opened the session by questioning the traditional understanding of international law:
"We were taught that international law is universal, founded on the United Nations, and serves as a cornerstone of peaceful coexistence among nations. However, the most dangerous mistake is to deny reality," Kopylova remarked.
She highlighted the growing divergence between international law and the "rules-based order" promoted by some countries, where one nation attempts to impose its vision of international relations on others. This, she said, underscores the need to rethink the general theory of international law.
Challenges and the Shift Toward Multipolarity
Goran Petronijević, President of the Serbian Center for the Restoration of International Law, pointed out the global shift from neoliberal globalization toward a multipolar world:
"We are witnessing the replacement of 'rights' with 'rules.' While international law is based on consensus among all parties, rules are dictated by the hegemon. Over the past 15 years, we've seen the decline of neoliberal globalization coincide with the rising economic, military, and political power of the broader international community. The formation of a multipolar world continues."
Historical Roots and Environmental Concerns
Lai Camara, an arbitrator in international commercial arbitration from France, discussed the historical roots of international law, noting that it was originally crafted to serve the interests of the Western world:
"International law, as it was created, was designed by and for the Western world. It prioritized balance and stability among European nations while excluding the rest of the world from the equation."
The discussion also addressed environmental security within international law. Kent Hasret Çomak, Professor of Political Science and Public Administration at Istanbul University, acknowledged global progress in environmental protection but stressed that significant challenges remain. He argued that these issues require robust international legal support.
The Future of Digital International Relations
In addition to the roundtable, the symposium featured a panel discussion titled "The Future of Digital International Relations." Experts examined the impact of digital transformation on international relations and the potential of emerging technologies to drive a multipolar world order.
About the "Shaping the Future" Symposium
Held from November 4 to 6, the "Shaping the Future" Symposium brought together scientists, researchers, futurists, writers, and government representatives from 101 countries, including Russia, India, Italy, Iran, China, the UAE, Serbia, the USA, and France. Over 60 sessions focused on four themes: the future of humanity, technology, multipolarity, and civilizations. Event details and live streams are available at future.russia.ru.
The symposium is the inaugural event of the National Center "Russia," established on July 1, 2024, by a directive from Russian President Vladimir Putin. The center preserves the legacy of the "Russia" International Exhibition-Forum and showcases the nation’s achievements through collaborations with federal authorities, corporations, and regional governments.