Greek Foreign Minister warns of power-driven erosion of international law

Giorgos Gerapetritis addressed the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy in Toronto, describing the last three years as a geopolitical disaster for Greece and similar middle powers. He argued that the post-World War II architecture based on international law is receding, with raw power becoming the decisive factor in global affairs. The minister noted more than 60 active armed conflicts—the highest number since the war—and the rise of cross-regional alliances that render geography less relevant, exemplified by a "Europe plus" concept linking Canada as a partner.

He warned of unprecedented energy and food insecurity stemming from crises in the Gulf, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, and the breakdown of Ukraine’s grain corridor, alongside drought concerns. Gerapetritis condemned the United Nations for not passing any resolutions on the 61 conflicts, citing veto constraints that also affect the EU’s ability to act on Ukraine. He called for strategic autonomy, higher defence spending, and the formation of robust alliances, while acknowledging the lack of effective mechanisms to counterbalance power dominance. The minister will attend the UN General Assembly in New York, where he expects further debate on revitalising the organization.