ABSTRACT

The principle of peaceful settlement of disputes is enshrined in art 2 of the Charter which provides that in the pursuit of the fundamental objectives of the UN, namely the maintenance of peace and security, its member states are bound to settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner as not to endanger international peace, security and justice. This obligation is reinforced in art 33(1) of the UN Charter which provides that:

‘The parties to any dispute, the continuance of which is likely to endanger the maintenance of international peace and security, shall, first of all, seek a solution by negotiation, enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, resort to regional agencies or arrangements, or other peaceful means of their own choice.’