PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has urged the United Nations (UN) to reform itself for its “inadequate” effectiveness as an international institution which hardly combat global crises.
“We face multiple crises that demand effective global governance. Yet, our institutions, including the United Nations, have proven to be inadequate,” Duterte said in his pre-recorded virtual message at the 76th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
While the UN can best be described as “product of an era long past,” the Philippine Chief Executive claimed that its movements no longer resonate the real political and economic situations on the ground.
Duterte pointed out that the UN, particularly its Security Council, cease to remain true to its principles in upholding democracy and transparency along its processes.
“Democracy and transparency are concepts that reverberate in the halls of the UN. But ironically, the Security Council – the pinnacle of the UN structure – violates every tenet of these values,” the Philippine leader said.
“It is neither democratic nor transparent in its representation and processes. Many member states have spoken firmly and we agree: This simply is not right,” he added.
Duterte stressed that only through reform could the UN strengthen itself and effectively contribute to the needs of the world amid the emergence of several catastrophes.
“If the UN is to lead the world out of the many crises we face, things need to change. The UN must empower itself, by reforming itself. Therein lies the hope for humanity,” he exclaimed.
The Security Council is comprised of 15 members whose pivotal role is to maintain and restore international peace and determine the existence of potential threats or any act of aggression.
Included as the Council’s permanent members are the United States (US), China, France, Russian Federation, and the United Kingdom.
Meanwhile, the UNGA has elected Estonia, India, Ireland, Kenya, Mexico, Niger, Norway, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia, and Vietnam as ten temporary member states whose terms will last for two years.
(PHOTO CREDIT: pna.gov.ph)