UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Calls for Overhaul of Outdated Global Institutions
UN Chief Urges Global Community to Embrace Reform, Citing Urgency in Addressing Outdated Systems and Ongoing Humanitarian Crises.
In a bold address at the 3rd South Summit of the Group of 77 in Kampala, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a comprehensive overhaul of the world’s multilateral institutions, asserting that they have become obsolete and no longer serve their intended purposes.
Guterres pointedly remarked that institutions like the United Nations Security Council and the Bretton Woods system are relics of a bygone era, constructed 80 years ago when many African nations were still under colonial rule. “They are no longer fit for purpose,” he emphasized during discussions with reporters.
The Secretary-General highlighted his concern about the outdated nature of the UN Security Council, characterizing it as “stuck in a time warp.” He particularly questioned the absence of a single African permanent member, stressing the need for greater inclusivity.
Guterres also took aim at the global financial system, describing it as “outdated, dysfunctional, and unfair.” He advocated for a comprehensive revamp to ensure these institutions align with the current global landscape and effectively address the challenges faced by today’s world, particularly emphasizing the vital interests of developing countries.
Announcing a significant initiative, Guterres disclosed that this September, the United Nations will convene the Summit of the Future. The summit will focus on updating institutions to better reflect the contemporary world and address pressing challenges.
Switching gears to the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Guterres expressed his unwavering commitment to a humanitarian ceasefire. With more than 25,000 casualties reported since the Oct. 7 Hamas offensive, he emphasized the urgency of ending the nightmare for civilians in Gaza. Guterres underlined that an immediate ceasefire is crucial for facilitating the release of hostages and preventing the conflict from engulfing the entire region.
Addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Guterres staunchly reiterated his support for the two-state solution. He condemned the refusal to accept this solution, emphasizing that denying the right to statehood for the Palestinian people is unacceptable.
The Secretary-General’s call for reform and his commitment to addressing pressing global issues underscore the need for a comprehensive reevaluation of existing institutions to better serve the diverse and evolving needs of the international community. The upcoming Summit of the Future signals a crucial step toward reshaping these institutions for a more equitable and sustainable future.
