Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that the United Nations (UN) remains important, but its authority and role are not being sufficiently respected in today’s world.
Speaking at a press conference, Wang Yi made important remarks regarding global governance and the role of the UN. Emphasizing that the UN remains the most important international institution, the Chinese diplomat also voiced criticism about the organization’s current position.
“If multilateralism appears to be weakening today, it is not because the UN has lost its importance, but because its authority and role are not being sufficiently respected and effectively implemented,” Wang said.
Risk of Returning to the “Law of the Jungle”
Wang Yi warned that the world faces the danger of reverting to the “law of the jungle.” According to him, this risk does not stem from the UN Charter becoming outdated, but rather from the failure to properly uphold and safeguard its principles.
The Chinese foreign minister stressed that the UN’s central role must be supported in addressing global challenges and added:
“On the UN platform, we should build global consensus, coordinate the actions of states, and gradually eliminate deficiencies in global governance so that we can respond to challenges together.”
Emphasis on the Global South
Wang Yi also underlined the need to accelerate reform efforts within the UN. He stated that developing countries, collectively referred to as the Global South, should be given greater representation and a stronger voice within the organization. According to Wang, this would inject new vitality into the UN and enhance its effectiveness.
Earlier today, the Chinese government released a White Paper titled “Building a More Just and Rational Global Governance System: China’s Concepts, Initiatives, and Actions,” outlining Beijing’s official roadmap and vision for global governance reform.