The article explores the relationship between governments and their populations regarding sovereign debt. It discusses how sovereign debt is interconnected with international financial obligations. The authors suggest that issues of sovereign legitimacy in the debt market exist on a continuum rather than as clear-cut choices. They argue that challenging the narrative supporting the repayment of odious debt could help reform the regime for restructuring sovereign debt. The comments also highlight how sovereign debt is embedded in social contracts, which should influence policy responses to current challenges.