Global Governance and the Rule of Law

Our work in this area explores the rule of law at both global and national level, particularly in countries in transition.

Photo of mayors and youth activists hold a joint press conference at the C40 World Mayors Summit on 11 October 2019 in Copenhagen, Denmark.

As the UN approaches its 75th anniversary at a period of increasing geopolitical competition and uncertainty, we explore the prospects for renewal and adaptation of the rules-based international order. How are governance mechanisms adapting to shifts in global power, the emergence of non-state actors and new global challenges? How can these systems become more inclusive, accountable and effective – and how can new technologies support transformation?

Our work in this area includes the ‘Our Shared Humanity’ Conference which convened diverse actors working on peace, human rights and sustainable development to reflect on Kofi Annan’s legacy in these areas and identify practical recommendations for renewed engagement and progress.

Project content

Short animation exploring how global governance can be reshaped to meet the challenges of today’s world.

Soft law is increasingly being used by policymakers to enable greater cooperation and inclusivity, and its role is here to stay in creating effective regimes.

For effective and inclusive digital governance, multi-stakeholderism must raise its game.

This paper offers 10 insights from a series of Chatham House roundtables and related interviews on how global governance needs to be transformed for today’s changing world.

António Guterres is under scrutiny as he prepares to report on the future of the United Nations, with a renewed focus on trust, resilience and prevention.

The UK’s reputation for keeping to its international obligations is under threat from a new Bill which impacts humanitarian principles during overseas conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

The new proposals are timely with the world at a critical inflection point for technology governance, as responses to the ongoing pandemic have fast-forwarded digitalization across all sectors.

The ‘Security and Prosperity in Asia’ conference examined the impact of international law in the Asia-Pacific with a focus on regional economic and security issues.

This paper summarizes key points raised during the ‘Our Shared Humanity’ conference exploring Kofi Annan’s legacy in the run-up to the UN’s 75th anniversary.

Despite the political significance, last week’s judgment does not signal a newly activist court.

Where China’s interests align with those of the international community, there are opportunities for the country’s influence and economic power to strengthen the rules-based international order. Where they do not, states that traditionally support that order should join together to push back.

Increasing contributions to UN peacekeeping and the rising presence of Chinese security forces abroad are pushing Beijing to engage with questions of international law it has not previously had to consider.

Beijing wants to present itself as a responsible power with a role to play in Arctic governance, as part of a broader ambition to become a shaper of global rules and institutions.

As part of a roundtable series, Chatham House and the China University of Political Science and Law (CUPL) held a two-day roundtable in Beijing on emerging issues of public international law.

Past events

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Conflict, poverty and inequality have exacerbated the impacts of the pandemic, provoking states to prioritize their own interests and resources as they tackle the social and economic fallout.

As companies rethink and diversify their supply chains in order to enhance resilience, what will this mean for current and future global investment governance?

This event is part of the Inclusive Governance Initiative, which is examining how to build more inclusive models and mechanisms of global governance fit for purpose in today’s world.