The rise of the Majority World in global politics has brought to light the outdated nature of the UN system, according to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. In a recent address, Guterres emphasized the need to address 21st-century problems with modern tools, highlighting the Western-led dominance that has hindered the UN’s effectiveness.
Since its inception in 1945, the UN has aimed to promote multilateralism and international cooperation to prevent conflicts like those seen in World War II. However, the current structure of the UN, with the Western powers holding disproportionate influence, has led to a system that favors the few over the many.
The veto power held by the five permanent members of the UN Security Council has been a point of contention, with the US often using it to block resolutions that go against its interests. Calls for reform to give more representation to Africa, Latin America, and Asia have been met with resistance from Europe and the West, who seek to maintain their dominance.
As the global population continues to grow, with over 6 billion people residing in the Majority World, the need for a more inclusive and representative UN becomes increasingly urgent. The current power dynamics no longer reflect the reality of a world where former colonies have gained independence and demand equality on the global stage.
It is clear that change is inevitable, and the UN must adapt to reflect the true diversity and equality of the international community. As Guterres leads the charge for reform, the legacy of a more inclusive and effective UN system could be his greatest achievement. The time for a more equitable global governance system is now, and the world is watching to see if the UN can rise to the challenge.