International Law Eroding and Democracy in Retreat, Warns Yatsenyuk

Arseniy Yatsenyuk’s Remarks at the Kyiv Security Forum

According to Главком: Speaking at the 18th Kyiv Security Forum, Forum Chairman Arseniy Yatsenyuk warned that international law is being undermined and democracy is backsliding, highlighting grave dangers for the global community. During his address, Yatsenyuk stated:

“For 13 years, Russia has been destroying and shelling Ukraine, bombing it with impunity. International law has ceased to function. Criminals and tyrants are welcomed with red carpets. Democracy is retreating, alliances are disintegrating, and trust between friends is crumbling. The enemies of democracy are triumphant.” - Arseniy Yatsenyuk

He further stressed the need for the international community to recognize these issues, noting that “the erosion of international law and the retreat of democracy are already leading to catastrophe.”

Forum Theme and Calls to Action

The forum was held under the theme 'Dusk or Dawn: Is There Light Ahead?', which underscores a lingering hope for positive change. Yatsenyuk remarked: “Is there light ahead? I am optimistic and believe so. But we live in times when this question is no longer rhetorical.”

He also highlighted threats posed by selfishness, narcissism, greed, and deceit, urging a wake-up call: “Let us come to our senses!”

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex and founder of the Invictus Games Foundation, also addressed the forum. This event served as a key platform for discussing pressing security and democracy issues in the modern world.

Yatsenyuk’s statements at the forum reflect the anxiety within the international community over the state of democracy and international law amid growing threats. Emphasizing the importance of uniting efforts to counter these challenges, he called for decisive action and a clear-eyed understanding of the situation’s severity. Speeches by figures like Prince Harry also demonstrate global interest in security matters and support for countries facing aggression, which could help raise awareness and mobilize resources to address these problems.

Yatsenyuk's concerns echo the broader geopolitical tensions, particularly as seen in recent events where Russia has accused the EU of exacerbating conflict. This highlights the urgent need for a unified response from the international community to uphold democratic values and international law in an increasingly volatile environment.