Antonio Guterres took the reins of the United Nations on New Year’s Day, promising to be a “bridge-builder” and our first expectation in this regard would be to begin his milestone journey along UN’s core belief based on multilateralism. An evident paradox of today is that despite greater connectivity, societies have become more fragmented. More and more people are living within their own bubbles, unable to appreciate their links with the rest of the human family, and it’s perhaps here where the new SG could play a vital role in bridging the gaps.
After sworn in as SG last December, he is reported to have stated to focus on engaging all governments with one another – and, of course, all governments with the next government of the United States. However, given the new US president-elect’s reported lack of enthusiasm on multilateralism, his job is likely to get one full of probable difficulties.
We believe, the former Portuguese prime minister and UN refugee chief, Mr. Guterres will address this particular challenge with others intelligently. Our foremost expectation from him would be that he won’t resort to preferential treatments, in terms of peace negotiations, providing security and financial support. He should also prove his value and leadership by addressing some of the key challenges and crisis of the modern world today, that is to say – handle the Syrian and refugee crisis, plight of the Rohingyas’ and middle east’s ongoing political dilemmas, Palestine peace process along with other global issues like climate change with the equal degree of importance and astuteness.
That having said, there is a clear lack of capacity and combined enthusiasm among the international community, in terms to prevent and solve manmade conflicts. It would be highly appreciated if the new SG makes it a goal to make the community more united and equally responsive towards global challenges.
More generally, the moral duty of ensuring peace should be the top priority for the new UN Secretary-General. Not that the new SG will always be successful, because success depends on state powers. He must be morally strong so that injustices find a powerful protest in him.
Wish Mr. Antonio Guterres the best of luck on his appointment as the new UN Secretary General.
