The challenges shaping the new multipolar international order, the crisis of credibility facing international organisations and Greece’s position in an ever-changing geopolitical environment were analysed by Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, speaking at an event titled “The New Multipolar International Order”, organised by the United Nations University (UNU) in Tokyo.

Mr Gerapetritis argued that the world is at a historic turning point, as the architecture of international security established after World War II is undergoing transformation. As he noted, the new multipolarity is being shaped by three main factors: major geopolitical realignments, artificial intelligence and the new industrial revolution, as well as the radical change in the way information is disseminated through social media.

Referring to the functioning of international organisations, he noted that their inability to effectively manage crises, such as the war in Ukraine, has led to a gradual decline in multilateralism and to initiatives being undertaken by powerful and middle-sized states.

He made particular reference to the United Nations, pointing out that its existing structures, and especially the operation of the veto power within the Security Council, make it difficult to reach meaningful decisions in response to contemporary challenges.

The Foreign Minister said that this development is not limited only to major conflicts but is also reflected in regions such as Africa, where increasing geopolitical competition among external powers is intensifying regional crises.

Referring to Greece’s position, he presented two different approaches to foreign policy: one based on the rules and principles of International Law, and another more transactional approach that prioritises power and national interest.

As he stressed, Greece consistently chooses the first approach, believing that firm adherence to International Law constitutes a strategic interest, particularly for small and medium-sized countries.

At the same time, he warned that the application of double standards in similar international cases undermines the credibility of both states and international organisations, while arguing that International Law cannot be applied selectively.

In the second part of the discussion, responding to a question on how trust in International Law can be restored, Mr Gerapetritis argued that the fundamental principles of any form of governance are legitimacy and accountability, expressing the view that both are currently being tested at the international level.

As he explained, legitimacy does not depend only on the way power is acquired, but also on the way it is exercised, noting that decisions taken today create precedents that will influence the international legal order in the future.

Concluding his remarks, the Foreign Minister referred to the need to protect fundamental principles of International Law, such as freedom of navigation, in light of developments in the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed that “International Law is either a single, unified body of rules or it does not exist,” calling for a collective effort to safeguard the international legal order.