Counsels and the Shaping of International Law
22 July 2025
In the grand theater of international relations, world leaders and diplomats often take center stage. Yet, behind the scenes, a quieter force shapes the very foundations of global order: the counsels of international law.
These legal architects, seldom in the spotlight, wield a profound influence over the fate of nations, the protection of human rights, and the pursuit of justice across borders.
At its core, the role of counsel in international law is a paradox of power and restraint. Counsels are entrusted with the immense responsibility of interpreting and defending the law, yet they must do so within the boundaries of ethical advocacy and impartial reasoning. As Sir Hersch Lauterpacht, a leading figure in international law, once observed: “International law is at once the law of nations and the law between nations; its practitioners must be both advocates and guardians of a common legal order.” Reflecting on my own journey as a diplomat and an International lawyer in this field, I have come to appreciate how the skills required of a counsel today are both unique and constantly evolving.
The ability to bridge worlds (law and diplomacy, principle and pragmatism, tradition and innovation) is not just an abstract ideal but a daily practice. The influence of counsels extends far beyond the courtroom. In negotiations, I have often found myself being the voice of caution and foresight, working to ensure that agreements are not just expedient, but sustainable and just. In moments of crisis, the counsel’s role becomes that of a conscience, reminding all parties of their obligations not just to each other, but to humanity at large. Yet, this power comes with profound ethical dilemmas and navigating these murky waters, where law, politics, and morality intersect, has required not only legal acumen, but also a strong sense of integrity and self-reflection.
The choices made in these moments can have consequences that ripple far beyond the immediate case. I have witnessed firsthand how thoughtful advocacy can influence the reasoning of judges and, ultimately, the development of global legal norms.
In a world facing new challenges (climate change, cyber warfare, migration crises), the role of international counsels is not only limited with interpreting existing laws, but with helping to imagine new ones, adapting ancient principles to unprecedented realities. This work demands not just legal skill, but vision, courage, and a deep commitment to the ideals that underpin the international order. For me, the true legacy of counsels in international law is not found solely in the verdicts we secure or the treaties we draft, but in the invisible threads of trust, stability, and justice we weave through the fabric of our interconnected world.