Deputy Secretary-General Urges Defense of United Nations Charter and Renewal of Multilateralism

Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed addressed the Danish Parliament in Copenhagen, highlighting Denmark’s unwavering commitment to international cooperation and humanitarian values. She praised the country as a “humanitarian powerhouse” and a vital player in advancing global agendas, particularly in areas like women’s rights and climate action. Mohammed emphasized the urgent need for solidarity and a renewed focus on the principles of the United Nations Charter to address the pressing challenges facing the world today.

Denmark’s Role in Global Cooperation

In her remarks, Amina Mohammed commended Denmark for its steadfast dedication to the values of the United Nations since its inception. She noted that Danish professionals contribute significantly to the UN’s mission, embodying integrity and expertise. As a member of the Security Council, Denmark has been instrumental in promoting critical issues such as women, peace, and security. Mohammed acknowledged the leadership of Denmark’s Prime Minister in advocating for women’s empowerment, urging that women should not only occupy seats at the table but also wield real power in decision-making processes.

The Deputy Secretary-General underscored the importance of holding discussions in the Folketing, Denmark’s Parliament, as a reflection of the UN Charter’s opening words: “We the peoples.” She stressed that the current global landscape is fraught with division and inequality, necessitating a collective effort to uphold the principles of solidarity and human rights. Mohammed warned against complacency, urging nations not to become mere spectators as multilateralism is eroded, which could lead to a collapse of the frameworks that ensure peace and prosperity.

Challenges to Multilateralism

Mohammed expressed concern over the threats to sovereignty and territorial integrity that many nations face today. She highlighted that the very foundations of the UN Charter are under attack, as some member states regress to prioritizing power over principle. This shift has resulted in dire consequences, evident in the ongoing crises around the world. The Deputy Secretary-General cautioned that if the erosion of multilateralism continues unchecked, the scaffolding that has historically protected global peace may ultimately fail.

She emphasized the need for nations to recognize their obligations under the Charter, which serves as a moral compass for international relations. Mohammed pointed out that the most courageous advocates for the Charter are often smaller nations, such as South Africa and The Gambia, which stand up for the rights of the vulnerable. She warned that ignoring the rules-based order could lead to dire consequences for all nations, regardless of their size or power.

Investing in Sustainable Development

Amina Mohammed highlighted the critical link between sustainable development and peace, noting that progress in reducing extreme poverty and improving health outcomes has been achieved over the past few decades. However, she cautioned that geopolitical tensions threaten to reverse these gains, jeopardizing the promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Deputy Secretary-General pointed out that trade wars and political instability are hindering development efforts, particularly for women and girls.

She stressed that without sustainable development, lasting peace cannot be achieved. The Sustainable Development Goals represent a collective commitment to shared prosperity, yet the current trajectory of military spending—reaching a record high of $2.7 trillion—contrasts sharply with the $4.2 trillion shortfall in funding needed for basic development needs. Mohammed called for a shift in priorities, urging nations to invest in development rather than military might, as the consequences of neglecting these issues are profound and far-reaching.

Reforming the United Nations for the Future

In her concluding remarks, Mohammed advocated for a reform of the United Nations to ensure it remains fit for purpose in a rapidly changing world. She cited examples of successful international cooperation, such as the swift mobilization of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic and the collective response to the Ebola crisis, as evidence of what can be achieved through solidarity. However, she acknowledged that the UN’s institutions are in need of modernization to effectively address contemporary challenges.

The Deputy Secretary-General introduced the UN80 Initiative, aimed at revitalizing the UN system to better serve humanity’s needs. This initiative seeks to break down silos and enhance collaboration across various agencies, ensuring that responses to global challenges are comprehensive and interconnected. Mohammed called on all member states, including Denmark, to lead the charge in committing to a reformed UN that upholds the principles of the Charter and adapts to the realities of today’s world. She concluded with a call to action, urging nations to embrace the courage required to navigate the complexities of international relations and to reaffirm the centrality of “we the peoples” in global governance.

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