Rabat Hosts the 82nd Session of the International Law Institute, with a Message from His Majesty the King Outlining Future Challenges
The Moroccan capital, Rabat, today welcomed the commencement of the 82nd session of the International Law Institute, held at the headquarters of the Moroccan Academy. This session sees the participation of a host of prominent experts and researchers in the field of international law. King Mohammed VI delivered a royal address to the participants of this significant scientific event, which was read by Mohammed Benouna, President of the International Law Institute. The message highlighted Morocco’s status as a space for international legal dialogue and underscored the current challenges facing the global legal system, emphasizing the need to enhance the institute’s role in adapting to transformations and safeguarding the values of peace and cooperation among nations.
Below is the full text of the royal message read by Mohammed Benouna, President of the International Law Institute:
“Praise be to God, and peace and blessings be upon our Master Muhammad, His family, and His companions.
Honorable members of the International Law Institute,
Esteemed attendees,
It is a great honor for the Kingdom of Morocco and the city of Rabat to host the 82nd session of the International Law Institute.
Africa has waited four decades since the Cairo session in 1987 to once again have the honor of hosting your meeting. Welcome back to Africa and welcome to Morocco.
Since its establishment in 1873, the International Law Institute has not only observed the shocks experienced by the world but has remained a vigilant observer, known for its insightful analyses, being ahead in setting standards and rules, and being a strong voice for the global legal conscience. This is a task that you have consistently undertaken with the determination and commitment that deserves appreciation and respect. Your awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1904 is a testament to your monumental efforts in service of international law.
Today’s session in Rabat occurs in a context where international law is experiencing significant tremors due to adverse winds. The world is changing rapidly, and certainties are continually diminishing, leading to a blurring of norms and concepts. Alliances are now questioned, and international law is frequently subject to violations, with its capacity to regulate international relations facing numerous challenges.
However, we have no doubt that your Institute possesses the competence and ability necessary to solidify its reputation and affirm its mission in confronting these challenges.
Your agenda covers pressing issues, including those associated with pandemics, which are global crises that extend beyond the health of individuals to the fundamental principles upon which the world is built. Given the existing tensions between national sovereignty and international cooperation, and between security pressures and solidarity requirements, structural crises disrupt not only the existing order but also reveal its flaws and accelerate its transformations. Therefore, your responsibility today is to examine and attempt to understand these transformations, not only to comprehend the recent past but to outline an international law framework that aligns with developments and rises to future challenges.
The foreign policy of the Kingdom of Morocco has consistently operated on a systematic legal approach based on respect for international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. There is no means to ensure the continuity of any system without regulatory rules, and on this conviction is based the work of Moroccan diplomacy. Yet, we also recognize that significant progress cannot be achieved in isolation. International dynamics are not merely balances between states; they are based on values and consensus principles, and are built on institutions capable of organizing cooperation and ensuring the sustainability of these principles.
In conclusion, we must commend your Institute for its unwavering role in advocating for the resolution of disputes through peaceful means consistent with the principles embedded in the UN Charter. Over the years, this Institute has successfully tuned into the rhythm of the world, embracing diversity and integrating the voices of all cultures and sensitivities. The holding of this session in Morocco under the presidency of a Moroccan figure who is a staunch defender of international law is a testament to that.
We hope that Morocco inspires you and that Rabat, as always, becomes a meeting place for exchanging views and experiences. May this 82nd conference be the forum that restores international law to its rightful place, distancing it from disillusioning utopianism and restoring its role as a beacon illuminating the way whenever vision becomes clouded.
Peace be upon you and the mercy of God and His blessings.”
