December 12, 2020
2 mins read

UN Chief Calls For Networked Multilateralism

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for multilateralism and reformed global governance to tackle global threats.

“The Covid-19 pandemic provides overwhelming evidence that we need more — and more effective — multilateralism, with vision, ambition and impact. We cannot respond to this crisis by going back to what was or withdrawing into national shells. We need more international cooperation and stronger international institutions,” he told the Nobel Peace Prize Forum in a pre-recorded video message.

He stressed the need to address the inequalities at the foundations of global power relations, Xinhua news agency reported.

The nations that came out on top more than seven decades ago have refused to contemplate reforms. The composition and voting rights in the UN Security Council and the boards of the Bretton Woods system are a case in point, Guterres said.

Many African countries did not even exist as independent states 75 years ago when the United Nations was founded. They deserve their rightful place at the global table. The developing world more broadly must have a far stronger voice in global decision-making. Any effort to improve global governance must take this into account, the UN Chief said.

“Reforming global governance must be one step toward creating a fairer world that can solve shared problems before they overwhelm us. We need global governance structures that deliver on critical global public goods, including public health, climate action, sustainable development, and peace.”

In addition to more inclusive and equal participation in global institutions, there is a need for a global financial architecture that recognizes the need for solidarity in the face of global threats. A more inclusive and balanced multilateral trading system will enable developing countries to move up global value chains, he said.

Multilateral cooperation should be firmly based on the universal values of community, solidarity, equality and humanity, recognizing the fundamental human rights of all and providing opportunities for all, he said.

Guterres repeated his call for a multilateralism that is networked and inclusive.

21st-century multilateralism must be networked. It should link the UN family with other global institutions, from international financial institutions to regional organizations and trade alliances. And 21st-century multilateralism must be inclusive. Today’s United Nations must go beyond governments to recognize the role of civil society, regions and cities, business, and academic institutions, he said.

“Today’s crisis can and must be turned into an opportunity for change,” he said.

“The Covid-19 crisis has shown above all the urgent need for human solidarity. Global governance must be based on a recognition that such solidarity is not only a moral imperative, it is in everyone’s interests. We can only tackle shared threats through shared resolve.”

Also Read-UK Shortens Self-quarantine Period

Previous Story

India Turns Heat On Trudeau

Next Story

UK Covid Death Toll Rose To 63,506

Latest from -Top News

Pakistan in the Dark: Power Crisis Boils Over

Regular power outages are a fact of life in Pakistan, but recent developments suggest that the situation is escalating to new extremes….writes Nasir Khattak In early January 2025, a nerve-breaking power outage

IBPC Dubai charts new growth path

Former Tata Motors CEO Ravi Kant headlines exclusive event as Indian business council sets course for transformation….reports Asian Lite News The Indian Business & Professional Council (IBPC) Dubai has signalled a significant

Miles in the Malls!

Dubai Mallathon kicks off today – The emirate’s biggest malls transform into indoor fitness arenas, inviting residents to walk, run, and win — all while staying cool, healthy, and community-connected….reports Asian Lite

Famine grips Gaza, WHO warns

WHO said Gaza’s population is facing acute food insecurity under the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification…reports Asian Lite News The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued its starkest warning yet about the

Lifeline from UAE to Gaza

UAE’s Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 sustains Gaza’s collapsing health system with hospitals, treatment, aid, and vaccines, offering vital relief to thousands amid deepening crisis….reports Asian Lite News The United Arab Emirates has
Go toTop