Dhaka:<Text>
Bangladesh Institute of Law and International Affairs (BILIA) today organized a symposium focusing on the role of international law in safeguarding democratic processes worldwide. The event, titled ‘The Role of International Law in Protecting Democracies,’ was held at the BILIA auditorium and featured a discussant from the University of Chicago Law School.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the symposium commenced with a welcome address by BILIA Director Ambassador M Maroof Zaman. The keynote speech was delivered by Professor Dr. Tom Ginsburg from the University of Chicago Law School, with BILIA Chairman Professor Borhan Uddin Khan presiding over the session.
Professor Tom Ginsburg, in his keynote address, highlighted recent violations of international law, indicating a potential shift towards a lawless global environment. He introduced the concept of ‘authoritarian international law,’ where authoritarian regimes are not just imitating int
ernational law but are actively using it to prolong their rule and suppress opposition. He pointed out that the legal tools initially crafted by democracies are now being repurposed for control by authoritarians. He warned that if democracies disengage from international institutions, other forces could occupy the resulting void.
Professor Ginsburg also emphasized the importance of regional organizations in providing space, pressure, and legitimacy when democracy falters. He called on democracies to stay engaged with international institutions and to strengthen regional mechanisms that could counter authoritarian international law and uphold democratic norms.
The discussion session was conducted by Professor Borhan Uddin Khan, who also addressed queries from participants. He pointed out the increasing misuse of power by global leaders and urged international society, especially significant global players, to uphold international law to safeguard democracy and human rights.&
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The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Professor Ekramul Haque. The symposium was attended by scholars, professors from various public and private universities, and former government officials.
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