UN Photo/Y. Nagata UN headquarters building in New York. The General Assembly, at the initiative of Turkmenistan, declared 2028 the year of international law International Law
The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring 2028 the International Year of International Law, thereby confirming the latter’s role in maintaining peace and security, strengthening multilateral cooperation and developing friendly relations between states.
The resolution emphasizes that respect for and compliance with international law are essential conditions for the effectiveness, predictability and legitimacy of the modern international system. Member States, UN organizations and other stakeholders are encouraged to undertake relevant educational, scientific and awareness-raising activities during 2028.
The resolution also encourages the peaceful settlement of disputes, the development of international legal cooperation and the improvement of legal education. Particular attention is paid to the involvement of youth, the scientific community, representatives of the legal profession and civil society institutions in the promotion of international law.
The General Assembly welcomed the proposal of Turkmenistan to hold a Global Forum on International Law in December 2028, which will become the central event of the International Year and will bring together Member States, UN agencies, international organizations, the scientific community and civil society society.
The proclamation of the International Year builds on the long-standing work of the United Nations to promote the teaching and learning of international law, including the implementation of the UN Assistance Program in International Law and the work of the International Law Commission.