International law's critical role today

In her inaugural speech on international law at the London Conference, the Attorney General for England and Wales, Rt Hon Ellie Reeves KC MP, emphasised the significance of international legal frameworks that underpin both prosperity and individual rights. With a personal touch, Reeves reflected on her legal background as an employment rights lawyer and recounted her experiences advocating for human rights, which deepened her commitment to the rule of law.

Reeves articulated a need for a robust defence of international law, saying “the crises we face are spilling out on multiple fronts, and trust and public confidence in the institutions built to protect ordinary people are eroding.” She pointed to the impact of global events on domestic issues, citing the conflict in Ukraine leading to rising living costs, and the closure of strategic shipping routes affecting energy prices.

The Attorney General empasised how international law fundamentally shapes aspects of daily life. She reminded the audience of its role in enabling international travel, as she explained, “the Chicago Convention establishes the international legal framework for international civil aviation.” This framework ensures families can enjoy holidays abroad. Furthermore, she highlighted the role of international law in criminal justice, which facilitates cross-border cooperation to ensure safety and accountability.

Reeves also devoted attention to human rights protections under the European Convention on Human Rights, detailing how it enables individuals to assert their rights, from medical decisions to legal accountability in cases of serious crime.

Notably, she mentioned recent shifts in UK policy regarding Israel and Palestine, stressing the importance of upholding international law. "This is Britain standing for something. It is about holding true to our values, supporting accountability, and upholding respect for international law," she stated, rounding off her address with an appeal for collective action.

In conclusion, Reeves affirmed that “law and legal certainty underpin so much of our daily freedoms,” reinforcing the notion that international law remains crucial for the UK, amidst the present global challenges of conflict and institutional trust issues.