30.01.2026 Statement for Arria Meeting on Upholding the Sanctity of Treaties
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Thank you, Chair,
Let me also thank the briefers for their insightful briefings. We commend Pakistan for convening this meeting and for drawing the Council’s attention to a topic of foundational importance.
Chair,
It is a fundamental principle of international law that treaties are binding upon the parties to them and must be performed in good faith. This principle of pacta sunt servanda is arguably the oldest principle of international law. It is firmly established in customary international law and was reaffirmed in article 26 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties. Pacta sunt servanda has a pivotal role in providing legal certainty, stability and predictability in international relations. As such, the principle is crucial for a rules-based international order, including the establishment and functioning of multilateral institutions. It is also key to peacefully resolving disputes on a basis of mutual trust, reliability and accountability.
Chair,
Respect for treaty commitments is essential for the maintenance of international peace and security, particularly as they relate to the UN Charter. Regrettably, we continue to witness a disturbing trend of disregard for, as well as outright violations of, the Charter’s most fundamental obligations. Denmark therefore firmly insists on the sanctity of treaties, in particular the UN Charter. The binding nature of treaty obligations must be respected and they must be performed in good faith. We call on all Member States to honour their legal obligations under the Charter and international law. In this regard, we recall that continued constructive engagement and dialogue plays a key role. We further reiterate the central role of the International Court of Justice in upholding international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
Chair, in closing,
Respecting treaty obligations means exercising responsibility. A responsibility which we all share.
I thank you.