Namibia has warned that the misuse of the United Nations Security Council veto and the selective application of international law are eroding trust in the global legal order.
The country's Permanent Representative to the UN, Penda Naanda, says no state should escape accountability because of its size or political power.
Power must not determine who answers to international law.
That is Namibia's message to the international community, amid concerns over double standards, weakened institutions and decisions taken outside the United Nations system.
Ambassador Naanda identified three major threats to the rule of law, which are weak domestic institutions, misuse of veto power by permanent members of the Security Council and the selective application of international law.
"Such conduct is inconsistent with the fundamental principle that no person, institution or State is above the law, irrespective of size or power."
Namibia also warned that selective enforcement of international law undermines trust and that continued under-representation of Africa in key multilateral institutions raises questions about equality and legitimacy.
Naanda says the rule of law must be upheld consistently, rather than being applied according to political interests.
"We cannot expect to benefit tomorrow from the protection of legal principles that we undermine, selectively apply or disregard today."
Namibia's position is rooted in its Constitution, which places democracy, justice and the rule of law at the centre of the state.
Its own history of colonial occupation, oppression and human rights violations under apartheid also informs its commitment to international justice and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
Naanda urged countries to turn international commitments into practical action, supported by institutions that hold all states equally accountable.
"Strong institutions will always outlast strong individuals."
Namibia delivered the warning during the General Assembly's 6th committee debate on the rule of law at the national and international levels.