Algerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, has emphasized the need for reforming the United Nations system, stating that it is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Speaking on behalf of Algeria during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, Attaf highlighted the challenges facing the international community, including rising tensions, conflicts, and crises, while trust between nations is declining.
Attaf expressed his gratitude to UN Secretary-General António Guterres for his efforts in defending the organization and promoting multilateralism. He noted that the world is at a crossroads, with various regions experiencing escalating tensions, conflicts, and crises, while nationalism and unilateralism are on the rise. Attaf warned that the danger lies not only in the outbreak of wars but also in the normalization of war and the erosion of international law.
The Algerian minister questioned the effectiveness of the current international system, asking how it can be sustained when principles are selectively applied and international law is subject to the interests of powerful nations. He emphasized that the issue is not just a passing crisis but a profound review of the collective conscience and the ability to preserve and develop the international system established after two world wars.
Attaf pointed out that the world has failed to learn from history and has not translated lessons into measures to prevent future conflicts. He stressed that the UN system was established to promote peace and security but has been hindered by the lack of effective tools to achieve these goals. The minister emphasized that reforming the UN system is crucial to addressing the challenges of the 21st century.
Algeria, Attaf said, believes that reforming the UN system starts with the organization itself and that the General Assembly has a critical role to play in this process. He called for strengthening the role of the General Assembly and reforming the Security Council to make it more representative, just, and effective. Attaf also emphasized the need to address historical injustices and promote a more equitable international order.
The Algerian minister reiterated his country's support for the African position and the need for a permanent and equitable African representation on the Security Council with full powers. He concluded that restoring trust in the international system requires not only institutional reforms but also fairness and justice for nations seeking to determine their own destiny and achieve their national aspirations.
Attaf's statement reflects Algeria's commitment to promoting a more just and equitable international order and its belief in the need for UN reform to address the complex challenges facing the world today. The international community must work together to strengthen multilateralism and promote a culture of peace, security, and cooperation.
Key points
- Algeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, calls for UN reform to address global challenges and promote a more just and equitable international order.
- Attaf emphasizes the need to strengthen the role of the General Assembly and reform the Security Council to make it more representative and effective.
- Algeria supports the African position and advocates for a permanent and equitable African representation on the Security Council with full powers.
