On March 3, 2025, Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, emphasized the need for the nation's foreign policy to remain anchored in long-standing principles, even as it navigates through tumultuous global relations. "[Our foreign policy] must always be a balance between realism and idealism. It means we must have no illusions about our place in the world, but small as we are, for 60 years, we have refused to adopt a fatalistic posture," he stated during the announcement of his ministry's annual budget plans.
For six decades, Singapore has maintained its agency on the international stage, insisting on its strength to protect its sovereignty, remain relevant, and create political and economic space for itself. The minister stressed, "We strive to be useful, but not to be made use of. And of course, to avoid becoming a sacrificial pawn between big powers." Conducting harmonious relations with all partners, including the United States and the Republic of China, is pivotal, he added, especially during times of escalation between these major powers.
According to Dr. Balakrishnan, the existing rules-based international order is under severe threat, likely degenerizing to the "law of the jungle" where "might makes right." He explained, "The big powers are taking a narrower view of their national interests, and they are adopting a more transactional, frankly, sometimes even coercive approach" as nations turn inward, claiming to prioritize national security and de-risking their interests.
This shifting global dynamic is particularly precarious for small states like Singapore. Balakrishnan cautioned, "We may, in fact, be reverting to a time when the world is divided by blocks controlled by big powers, and by definition, this must mean the loss of choice and autonomy for small states." His observations reflect broader concerns about the integrity of international law and the principles outlined after World War II.
International law, though intended as the guiding force for peaceful relations, has often struggled against the interests of powerful nations, as evidenced by recent world events. The wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya highlight how major powers have manipulated legal frameworks to justify military interventions. The recent violence witnessed in Gaza—resulting in over 160,000 casualties—has prompted new scrutiny of international law's role.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has recently initiated investigations concerning potential genocide against the Palestinian population, and the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants against senior Israeli officials, showcasing the law's capability for accountability, albeit against significant geopolitical pressures.
Yet, powerful nations, particularly the United States, prioritize their interests, sometimes undermining international justice. Following the ICC's actions, the U.S. government imposed sanctions on the ICC’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, exhibiting the extents to which it will go to protect allied states like Israel. Legislative efforts such as the 2002 Hague Intervention Act serve to shield American personnel and allies from ICC prosecution, emphasizing the imbalance favoring natural legal actors.
Dr. Balakrishnan underscored Singapore’s resilience amid this chaotic backdrop. "Singapore has good reasons to be confident about its future due to the work of past generations," he declared, reaffirming the strength of Singapore's economic reserves and defensive capabilities as core pillars. His words attempt to kindle assurance among citizens, insisting on the need for continued unity during these trying times.
The Gaza situation has revealed the moral crisis affecting not only international law but the diplomatic propriety of Western nations. Critiques of Israel’s actions have faced significant pushback from the U.S. and allied governments. Recent events, like the German police raid on the Junge Welt newspaper offices, targeting outspoken critics such as UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, exemplify this troubling trend.
On the global stage, international law has become more rhetorical than instrumental for justice, often reflecting the power dynamics of its time rather than upholding universal principles. Nonetheless, the situation remains tenuously optimistic as growing global awareness indicates rising demands for genuine accountability.
While Minister Balakrishnan aptly noted, "We need the support and unity of all Singaporeans.., to forge unbreakable unity... to face the future with confidence," the fight against the manipulation of international law continues, demanding reform to center justice over power.
The call to action is clear: the international community must recalibrate its focus, rejecting the impunity often afforded to the powerful. The ideals of international law must strive to fulfill their promises of peace and human dignity for the oppressed—where accountability is not undermined by military might but thrives as the pathway to lasting justice.