What is often a primary challenge in the enforcement of international law?

A primary challenge in the enforcement of international law stems from difficulties in jurisdiction and sovereignty. International law operates on the principle that states are sovereign entities with the power to govern themselves without external interference. This sovereignty can create conflicts when one state's laws or actions are perceived to violate another state's rights or the norms of international law.

When there is a dispute involving international law, it can be complicated to determine which jurisdiction should take precedence, especially when multiple countries are involved. The absence of a universal governing body with the authority to enforce international laws often leads to inconsistencies in how laws are applied and results in a lack of accountability for violations. Countries may also be reluctant to act against other sovereign states due to political considerations, national interests, or the desire to maintain diplomatic relations.

This complexity makes it challenging to ensure that international legal standards are upheld consistently across different jurisdictions, highlighting the inherent difficulties in navigating the intersecting issues of sovereignty and jurisdiction that are central to international law enforcement.