International law has a long history and a broad reach, shaping everything from commercial transactions to maritime boundaries and the pursuit of justice for the most serious of crimes. Yet, for all its history, it has been marked with uncertainty and the persistence of one question in particular: can international law genuinely constrain states, shape conduct, and deliver accountability–or does it too often fall short where it is most needed?

In this edition of LawTalk, we invited four experts to reflect on the power and impact of international law, each from a distinct perspective:

International arbitration and its role in resolving cross-border disputes;

• The evolving framework of the law of the sea;
• The impact and enforcement of international trade law; and
• The reach and challenges of the International Criminal Court.

As you read these pieces, you’ll find both optimism and caution. While some areas of international law highlight the growing reach of international legal mechanisms, others point to persistent gaps between legal principle and practice. Together, these insights offer a nuanced view of where international law stands today–and where it may be heading.