The current state of the world demands deep reflection, principled positions, and a just international order

At a time when wars, economic instability, climate change, and political crises threaten humanity’s collective future, contempt for international law and unilateral approaches not only fail to resolve global challenges but instead exacerbate them. A recent global survey conducted by CGTN clearly exposes this harsh reality and demonstrates that people around the world are no longer willing to accept coercion and self-centered politics.
The statement by U.S. President Donald Trump that “I do not need international law” is not merely a personal remark; it reflects a broader political approach that devalues international principles, multilateral mechanisms, and collective agreements. Such a stance sends a dangerous message to the international community, as international law remains the only shield protecting weaker nations against the power of the strong and serves as the cornerstone of global order.
The CGTN survey, conducted among internet users across different regions of the world, clearly shows that global public opinion has grown weary of unilateralism. According to the findings, 93.5 percent of respondents stated that the United States insists on unilateral policies and has positioned itself in opposition to the international community. This figure is not merely a statistical result; it is a warning sign of a deep global crisis of trust. When a major power distances itself from shared international principles, the inevitable outcome is the erosion of confidence and the weakening of collective global efforts.
The survey further reveals that 91.7 percent of respondents believe there is an urgent need for reform in global governance. This underscores the reality that the current international system remains largely rooted in twentieth-century conditions, while the world has changed, power structures have diversified, and challenges have become increasingly global. Consequently, reforming international institutions, ensuring fair participation of all countries in decision-making processes, and strengthening international law are no longer optional—they are unavoidable necessities.
Notably, 89.9 percent of respondents agree that multilateralism based on coordinated cooperation remains the key to addressing today’s global governance challenges. While unilateral policies often rely on force, sanctions, and pressure, multilateralism is grounded in dialogue, mutual understanding, and shared interests. History has repeatedly proven that global challenges—whether war, pandemics, climate change, or economic crises—can only be effectively resolved through collective action.
Moreover, 94.4 percent of respondents emphasize that advancing global governance reforms, safeguarding international law, and enhancing the effectiveness of multilateral mechanisms are of critical importance. This position represents the voice of global justice. International law must not serve as a tool for the interests of powerful states, but rather as a guarantee of equal rights for all nations. If international rules are respected only when they serve the interests of a particular power, they cease to be law and instead become instruments of selective politics.
The survey also conveys a clear message that 90 percent of respondents believe major countries should play a more constructive role in promoting reforms in global governance. Such a role does not imply the display of power, but rather the assumption of responsibility, respect for principles, and protection of the rights of other nations. If major powers seek genuine global leadership, they must act as guardians of international law—not its violators.
For countries like Afghanistan, which have suffered for decades due to contradictory international policies, the strengthening of international law and multilateralism holds particular significance. A just international system can amplify the voices of smaller and conflict-affected nations, protect their rights, and pave the way for the rule of law instead of the rule of force.
In conclusion, this CGTN survey is not merely a media report; it represents a collective message from the people of the world: unilateral decisions, disregard for international law, and power-based politics are no longer acceptable. Humanity today needs an international order founded on law, justice, cooperation, and mutual respect. If global leaders—especially major powers—fail to heed this message, instability, conflict, and mistrust will only intensify. However, if this call is heard, there remains a real possibility for the world to move toward shared peace, stability, and prosperity.