News from the world of international law and diplomacy.

Discover Global Shifts: From Humanitarian Law to AI's Impact on Press Freedom

Author

Peter Jarábek
May 05, 2025

Beyond Borders: Law & Diplomacy

First edition

Welcome to the premiere news of my new newsletter, Beyond Borders: Law & Diplomacy.

This newsletter is your gateway to the latest developments in international law, diplomacy, and global governance.

The mission of Beyond Borders is simple: to inform, connect, and spark deeper engagement with the world of international justice and diplomacy. Whether it’s the latest from the European Court of Human Rights, treaty negotiations, or evolving norms in international relations, you’ll find it here.

 

And also, new content is on the way soon, so stay tuned — and thank you for joining me on this journey beyond borders.

ICJ HEARINGS: What States Said About Israel, Gaza, and Humanitarian Law

The iconic Peace Palace in The Hague, a symbol of international law and justice

THE HAGUE — The International Court of Justice concluded a week of public hearings examining Israel’s obligations under international law to facilitate humanitarian aid in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including Gaza. The proceedings respond to a December 2024 request by the UN General Assembly for an advisory opinion on Israel’s responsibilities toward the United Nations, other international actors, and third states operating in the region.

Since the hearings opened on April 29, over 40 states and four international organizations have presented statements. A majority criticized Israel’s ongoing blockade and restriction of aid to Gaza, arguing it violates its obligations as an occupying power. Several states emphasized that the humanitarian crisis now threatens the survival of the Palestinian population and undermines broader international legal norms.

Israel did not attend the hearings, submitting written statements in which it criticized the process as politically motivated. It argued that its sovereign right to defend itself and control its territory outweighs any obligation to cooperate with entities it deems compromised, including the UNRWA.

On the third day of ICJ hearings, the U.S. argued that Israel cannot be forced to allow UNRWA to operate in Gaza, citing security concerns. Legal adviser Joshua Simmons said occupation law gives Israel discretion over which humanitarian actors it permits, referencing Israeli allegations against UNRWA, including links to Hamas.

HUMANITARIAN CONTEXT — Since March 2, Israel has entirely halted aid deliveries to Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, exacerbating shortages of food and medicine. The blockade forms part of its military campaign aimed at pressuring Hamas to release hostages.

While the ICJ's advisory opinions are non-binding, legal scholars note they carry significant moral and diplomatic weight.

The court’s opinion is expected in the coming months.

FLASH NEWS

Election of a new President of the ECHR

The European Court of Human Rights has today elected Mattias Guyomar, Judge elected in respect of France, as its new President. Mattias Guyomar succeeds Marko Bošnjak, Judge elected in respect of Slovenia. He will take up office on 30 May 2025.

India and Pakistan

A militant attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, that killed 26 civilians has reignited tensions between India and Pakistan. India blames Pakistan-based groups and has responded with diplomatic and military measures, including visa bans and airspace closures. Pakistan issued similar retaliations. Experts compare the attack to both Pulwama and Mumbai, warning of renewed escalation amid fragile diplomacy.

Ukraine Seeks Political Backing for Special Tribunal

The working group has completed technical work on key documents needed to establish a special tribunal for crimes committed by the Russian Federation. These include a draft agreement between Ukraine and the Council of Europe, the tribunal’s statute, and a financing framework. Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsia stated that Ukraine is now seeking political backing from international partners, particularly during the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers meeting on May 13–14, to advance the tribunal’s creation.

World leaders gather in Rome for Pope Francis' Funeral

The funeral of Pope Francis drew 170 delegations to Rome, underscoring the Holy See’s enduring role in global diplomacy. Through centuries-old papal diplomacy, the Vatican remains a unique platform for quiet engagement among world leaders. A striking image of Trump and Zelensky in conversation at St. Peter’s Basilica symbolized how Vatican ceremonies often transcend ritual, creating space for unexpected, symbolic diplomacy.

Nicaragua leaves UNESCO

Nicaragua has withdrawn from UNESCO after the organization awarded its 2025 World Press Freedom Prize to La Prensa, a newspaper now operating in exile. UNESCO defended the decision as part of its mandate to uphold free expression, while Nicaragua accused it of honoring “traitors” and abandoning objectivity. The move marks a diplomatic rift and a setback for global cooperation in education, culture, and press freedom, further isolating Nicaragua from international engagement.

WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY - 3rd of May

A free press writes the first draft of truth—today, with a pen shaped by technology, and a voice that must remain human.

ORIGINS AND PURPOSE — World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993 following a recommendation from UNESCO’s General Conference. This right is enshrined in Article 19 of the UDHR.

The date also marks the anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration, a 1991 statement of press freedom principles drawn up by African journalists in Windhoek, Namibia. This historic document linked the development of free, independent, and pluralistic media to democratic governance and sustainable development.

Since its proclamation in 1993, World Press Freedom Day has served as a global reminder of the importance of safeguarding media freedoms.

AI AND THE FUTURE OF PRESS FREEDOM — As AI transforms journalism and information flows globally, World Press Freedom Day 2025 focuses on the urgent need to balance technological innovation with the protection of media independence and freedom of expression.

UNESCO explores the complex impact of AI on journalism and media freedom. While AI introduces unprecedented tools for enhancing the journalistic process, such as real-time translation, data analysis, content personalization, and automated fact-checking, it also creates serious systemic risks that could erode the foundations of free expression.

Among the key concerns identified by UNESCO:

  • Disinformation and deepfakes jeopardize trust in media content.

  • Mass surveillance technologies, often powered by AI, contribute to self-censorship among journalists and citizens.

  • Algorithmic gatekeeping by tech platforms narrows diversity in media voices.

  • Generative AI tools reuse journalistic content without compensation, weakening the financial viability of independent newsrooms.

In short, while AI can enhance efficiency, its unregulated application threatens the integrity, pluralism, and sustainability of journalism as a public good.

UNESCO emphasizes that AI’s growing role in electoral processes is double-edged. On the one hand, it can support democracy through better access to information and automated fact-checking. On the other hand, it enables new forms of manipulation, such as synthetic media and targeted disinformation, that undermine electoral integrity and public trust.

Women journalists, in particular, face heightened digital threats. AI-generated deepfakes and harassment campaigns are increasingly used to discredit and silence their work. UNESCO notes this as a critical global issue, reinforcing the need for a gender-sensitive approach to digital safety.

Key Objectives of World Press Freedom Day 2025:

  • Reaffirm press freedom and free expression

  • Assess AI’s impact on media diversity and independence

  • Promote ethical, transparent AI in journalism

  • Ensure fair pay for journalistic content used by AI

  • Boost media literacy on AI technologies

  • Protect journalists in digital spaces, especially women

  • Encourage global cooperation across sectors

Peter’s Selected Picks

World Order by Henry Kissinger

Insightful and historically grounded analysis of how various civilizations have conceptualized global order and power distribution. Drawing on perspectives from Europe, China, the Islamic world, and the United States, Kissinger presents a nuanced framework for understanding the competing values and strategic interests that shape today’s international system.

Quo Vadis, Aida?

Powerfully captures the human cost of war through the lens of a woman caught in the 1995 Srebrenica massacre. The film is a poignant and unflinching portrayal of the failure of international institutions, the limits of diplomacy, and the moral dilemmas individuals face in times of atrocity. It’s a film that forces reflection on accountability, justice, and the role of global actors in protecting civilians.

Climate Change and Human Rights Course

Offers a comprehensive and timely exploration of the intersection between climate change and human rights. By the end of the course, participants will understand why climate change is not only an environmental crisis but also a profound human rights challenge. They will gain the ability to define and articulate key concepts that link these two fields and critically examine the inequalities driven by climate change.

A Final Note

In an era marked by complex global challenges and rapid technological change, staying informed and critically engaged is essential for the next generation of international actors. Whether through legal frameworks, diplomatic dialogue, or multilateral cooperation, young professionals have a growing role to play in shaping a more just and stable world.

Thank you for taking the time to read this edition. I hope it has provided meaningful insight and sparked further reflection as you navigate your professional and intellectual journey in international affairs.

Until next time,

Peter Jarábek

“Law shapes nations. Diplomacy connects them.”