On May 28, 2025, The Center for American and International Law (CAIL) hosted a virtual program titled “America First and International Law,” as part of its Promoting the Rule of Law webinar series.
The conversation was moderated by Chip Brower, Distinguished Service Professor at Wayne State University Law School and Chair of CAIL’s Institute for Transnational Arbitration. Panelists included José Enrique Alvarez, Herbert and Rose Rubin Professor of International Law at NYU School of Law, and Lucy Reed, Independent Arbitrator at Arbitration Chambers (New York) and President of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre.
Top 5 Takeaways from the Discussion:
The speakers shared the perspectives on the topic, including these observations:
- Receding U.S. Commitment to Multilateral Institutions - Recent shifts in U.S. foreign policy reflect a move away from long-standing multilateral agreements and organizations, prompting debate about the country’s evolving relationship with the global legal order it once helped shape.
- Legal Reliability and Global Influence - A nation’s consistency in honoring its international obligations plays a key role in its diplomatic credibility and influence. Departures from established legal commitments can alter perceptions of reliability and leadership.
- The Link Between Domestic and International Legal Norms - National decisions on legal matters—including executive actions, treaty withdrawals, and changes to immigration or environmental policy—can have significant implications for how the country is viewed within international legal frameworks.
- The Role of Soft Power in Rule of Law Leadership - Soft power, rooted in transparency, stability, and principled legal behavior, was discussed as an essential dimension of international leadership. Its erosion may create space for alternative models of governance and dispute resolution.
- Value of Diverse and Critical Legal Perspectives - Sustaining and strengthening the international rule of law requires input from a range of voices, including foreign students, scholars, and critical legal theorists. Their perspectives are vital for examining existing frameworks and imagining future reforms.
Watch the full conversation below:
About the Promoting the Rule of Law Webinar Series
Launched in 2022, the Promoting the Rule of Law webinar series is part of CAIL's commitment to advancing justice through education and dialogue on critical legal and law enforcement issues. The series serves as a platform for discussion among informed scholars, jurists, and practitioners on matters of broad public and professional significance. The views expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily indicate the views of their employers, clients, or any organization.