The world once believed that international law and global institutions existed to protect everyone, especially smaller and weaker countries. The idea was simple: if rules were written, and if powerful nations agreed to follow them, then future wars could be prevented, and sovereignty would be respected. Today, that belief is under serious strain. Looking into the crystal ball, the future appears uncertain and worrying, as old rules are bent, ignored, or openly challenged. Across the globe, countries are facing new kinds of threats. Some are attacked or pressured in the name of religion, ideology, or security. Others are bullied by powerful nations that were once seen as protectors of the international order. For many smaller countries, the fear is returning, fear that treaties no longer matter, that promises are empty, and that survival depends once again on raw power rather than law.

After the Second World War, several powerful Western countries presented themselves as protectors of international law. Institutions such as the United Nations, the International Court of Justice, and arms-control treaties were created to ensure that power did not override rules. Every country became a member of the UN and continued ratifying several global treaties to bring peace in the future, so that generations do not suffer from wars.

Sadly, in recent years, this belief has weakened. Recently, countries like Denmark, Mexico, and Canada, once seen as developed and peaceful countries, are facing pressure from the United States, mostly economic or political. Even though these actions are not open wars, they still weaken the idea that all countries are equal. What worries many people is not only the pressure, but also the lack of a strong response. Apart from mild criticism, most countries and international organisations have stayed silent. This silence sends a dangerous message that powerful countries can act without facing consequences. If this continues, smaller nations may stop trusting international law.

Greenland is a clear recent example. Denmark, a close ally of the United States, has openly disagreed with Washington after President Donald Trump repeatedly showed interest in taking over Greenland, which is an autonomous Danish territory.........

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