Vice President Jessica Alupo delivered a speech at the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, urging all 193 member countries to strengthen multilateralism as a critical mechanism for addressing common challenges together.
In her address, Ms. Alupo emphasized the importance of supporting dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution worldwide. She highlighted that peace and security are essential for sustainable development. To achieve this, she called for cooperation, diplomacy, and peaceful means to resolve conflicts, reiterating the original purposes of the UN.
This call comes in the context of ongoing challenges to multilateralism, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine two years ago. The conflict has led to the displacement of millions, casualties, and increased global insecurity.
Multilateralism, established 78 years ago after World War II, requires countries to adhere to international norms, principles, and respect for institutions like the UN. However, it has faced pressure over the years, with some powerful nations, such as the United States, acting unilaterally to protect their interests.
The shift of power from the UN Security Council (UNSC) to the UNGA has become evident. Developing and poorer nations have faced pressure from the United States and its European Union allies in crucial votes on Ukraine. The UNSC, designed to address global peace and security, has been challenged in resolving conflicts between superpowers.
Ms. Alupo voiced Uganda’s commitment to UNSC reform, making it more representative and addressing historical injustices against Africa. She cited the Common African Position, Ezulwini Consensus, and Sirte Declaration as guiding principles.
Additionally, Ms. Alupo shared Uganda’s readiness to host the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) and G77+China summits in mid-January 2024, along with progress in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The 78th UNGA session’s theme is “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all.”
On the sidelines of the UNGA, Ms. Alupo engaged in bilateral meetings with leaders from Chile, Burundi, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Oman, and South Korea.