What is the role that the UN and other international actors should play today as we watch the crisis unfold?
CEO AT CENTER FOR APPLIED RESEARCH / DEPUTY DIRECTOR AT CENTER FOR APPLIED SECURITY
“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine calls into question the legitimacy of existing international organizations, and above all the UN, if they fail to effectively resist the aggressor. The destruction of the international security architecture built on the principles of respect for territorial integrity and state sovereignty will lead to a resumption of confrontation between the great powers, where powerful states will dictate their will to weak states. Key international actors must demonstrate that they are capable of punishing violators of international law, and that such decisions cannot be blocked by veto. This requires establishing clearly defined procedures and mechanisms, up to the use of force against the aggressor. Such mechanisms may include the creation of a permanent international military contingent to guarantee international security or the possibility of forming a coalition of UN member states / other international actors to restore the status quo. ”