Multilateralism in crisis: The urgent need for global collaboration
At the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) General Debate (February-April 2025), a coalition of 16 international non-governmental organisations (INGOs), including Globethics, issued a joint oral statement urging urgent reforms to global governance and financial systems.
The statement calls on world leaders to take decisive action in four key areas:
- Reforming global governance and financial structures to ensure fair and equitable decision-making.
- Upholding human rights and international law in response to rising global crises.
- Providing debt relief for nations struggling with economic instability and mounting financial burdens.
- Committing to the 2030 Agenda and the Pact for the Future to drive sustainable development and global cooperation.
The coalition’s appeal comes amid growing concerns over economic inequality, geopolitical tensions, and the slow pace of progress toward global sustainability goals. The INGOs emphasised that without meaningful change, vulnerable populations would continue to bear the brunt of systemic failures.
"Multilateralism is in crisis, but fostering collaborative approaches remains essential to finding sustainable solutions to global problems," the statement reads.
Multilateral institutions, designed to foster international cooperation and protect human rights, are under strain. Political divisions, conflicting national interests, and the rise of unilateral approaches threaten to weaken global governance structures. However, collaborative solutions remain essential in addressing complex global issues such as climate change, conflict resolution, and social inequalities.
The General Debate highlighted the necessity of reaffirming shared commitment to human rights, justice, and peace. In this context, strengthening partnerships and inclusive dialogue between states, civil society, and international organisations is not just a choice but a responsibility. Without genuine cooperation, efforts to achieve sustainable development and global security risk falling short.
This call for action at HRC58 signals growing pressure on international institutions to prioritise ethical governance, social justice, and sustainable development in global policymaking.