Bierbock Calls for UN Reform: Change Is Needed, but Rapid Breakthrough Not Expected
On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter, European diplomat and President of the United Nations General Assembly, Annalena Bierbock, shared her views on the pressing need for profound reforms in the world’s premier international organization.
She emphasized that the reform of the UN Security Council has long been overdue and is crucial for modernizing and increasing the effectiveness of this key institution.
However, she acknowledged that a swift breakthrough is unlikely during her one-year tenure, as progress must happen incrementally through increased transparency and responsibility, especially regarding the use of veto rights.
Bierbock highlighted that despite mounting challenges and difficulties in multilateral cooperation, the UN remains an indispensable tool for maintaining global security.
She pointed out the importance of overcoming blockades and enhancing the organization’s efficiency, including by merging agencies, expanding local offices, and utilizing modern technologies such as artificial intelligence.
The Minister also expressed concern that financial pressures threaten to undermine the organization’s operations, emphasizing the need to focus on core priorities.
Regarding the future leadership of the UN, she proposed that a woman should become the next Secretary-General, stressing that, in 80 years, no woman has led the organization, and this situation should be rectified.
Concerning the role of the United States, Bierbock noted that despite the aggressive ‘America First’ policies of Donald Trump, the US still remains a vital and influential supporter of multilateralism.
She called on larger nations to take responsibility and remain committed to the fundamental principles of the UN.
Currently, the organization faces a crisis rooted in the deadlock at the Security Council, where Russia and China seek to block funding and activities related to human rights.
The 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia shattered the notion of inviolability of borders and led to paralysis within the Security Council, where veto rights of five permanent members play a decisive role.
Additionally, recent actions by the US administration have undermined core values and principles of the organization, weakening its role in global peace and security.
Surveys conducted in over 30 countries show strong support for closer international cooperation in trade, health, climate change, and poverty alleviation, yet confidence in institutions like the UN, IMF, and others remains low.
Experts advocate for innovative solutions to replace outdated systems and better address global challenges through renewed multilateral efforts.