The event will be held in English. The Global Institute for Strategic Research (GISR), in collaboration with the College of Public Policy and the College of Law, is excited to present this upcoming roundtable that will delve into the implications of the recent ICJ ruling in the South Africa v. Israel case. On January 26, 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivered its ruling in South Africa v. Israel, issuing provisional orders that Israel must “take all measures within its power to prevent the commission of all acts” of genocide relating to the Palestinians in Gaza. The ICJ’s nearly unanimous decision has substantial geopolitical and legal implications for Israel, the Palestinians, and for states and societies around the world. Since the ruling, there has been growing polarization, with some groups effectively supporting Israel’s war on Palestinians and others demanding an immediate ceasefire and the pursuit of a two-state solution (with many nuanced positions in between). Divisions are occurring between states and within and between regional blocs. Alongside this, questions about Israel’s compliance with the provisional order and its further violation of international law and norms are being raised, particularly given the substantial loss of life that has occurred since the order was issued. Coupled with these questions are rising global contestations on issues driving the conflict, with serious implications for the maintenance of our rules-based world order. This panel will feature distinguished diplomats and scholars from HBKU and will delve into key questions, including: What are the critical geopolitical/legal implications of the ICJ ruling? How has Israel’s response to the ICJ ruling affected geopolitical/legal dynamics and positioning? What are the implications of Qatar’s positioning and mediation role? How can we understand the case's implications and ruling for the global rules-based order?

Speaking to the research themes of the new Global Institute for Strategic Research, the opening plenary will consider the global challenges of governance, advancement (defined as progress, prosperity, and development), and peace and the role of states – operating globally, regionally, and bilaterally – in pursuing greater connectivity and collective action for meeting these 21st century challenges. In exploring some of the socio-cultural, political, and economic drivers changing the world today, the session will also give special attention to how GISR can contribute a distinctly Arab and regional point of view to having a meaningful impact on global policy.

This roundtable will examine the geopolitical dimensions of advancing AI, including competition between major powers, risks of destabilization, and differing regulatory approaches. The discussion will explore the potential social and economic impacts of AI adoption, both positive and negative, as well as the ethical implications of AI systems and policy frameworks needed for responsible governance.