Amid a rising global tide of nationalism and self-interested states, Andrew Hunter reflects on history to praise the value of international institutions and cooperation.
“Japan, a country that places importance on the rule of law, trusts that the outcome of this case upholds stable multilateralism…but when one morning you find your state bound by the policy of the majority…the only way out is to leave such an organisation.”

Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister Koji Tsuruoka, closing words to the International Court of Justice, 2013.

In this moment of contested territories, histories and destinies, institutional expressions of public good are more necessary than ever. The nations of the world appear united in their selective adherence to international law and equally selective commitment to multilateralism. Most nations maintain a rhetorical commitment to a multilateral approach – until strategic or economic interests are at risk. In this symphony of hypocrisy, Australia’s clanging symbol can often be clearly heard over the rest.

In the 5th century, the powerful city state of Athens wished to incorporate the strategically important but independent island of Melos into its empire. Thucydides’ Melian Dialogue, described the negotiations between Athens and Melos. The Athenian ambassadors, surprised by the Melians naivety, argued that justice “is to be found only as between equals in power. As for the rest, the strong do as they will and the weak suffer as they must.” Without recourse to collective action and security, powerful nations would be free to exert their will over the weak.

https://adelaidereview.com.au/opinion/modern-times/modern-times-soon-forget-lessons-past/