Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio and Ireland’s Prime Minister Simon Harris co-chaired an interactive dialogue on "Enhancing Multilateralism for International Peace and Security" at the United Nations Summit of the Future in New York on Sunday, September 22, 2024. This session addressed global challenges and emphasized the need for stronger, inclusive multilateral systems to uphold international peace.
President Bio highlighted the necessity of collective action to confront unprecedented threats such as violent conflict, terrorism, climate change, and health crises. "These threats know no borders and cannot be tackled by any Member State alone," he stated, stressing the importance of revitalizing multilateral cooperation.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s history, Bio noted the transformative power of international partnerships in restoring peace after conflict. He praised organizations like the United Nations, African Union, and ECOWAS for their roles in promoting reconciliation in his country.
Bio also pointed to geopolitical tensions and growing nationalism as serious threats to global peace. He urged reforms to adapt multilateral institutions to contemporary challenges and specifically called for restructuring the United Nations Security Council to better represent Africa. He emphasized that Africa is underrepresented despite being home to over a billion people affected by conflict.
Concluding his address, Bio urged global leaders to embrace multilateralism and seek innovative solutions for future challenges. "Together, we can forge a stronger multilateral system to address today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow," he affirmed.
His appeal resonates particularly with nations in the Global South advocating for more inclusive governance on the global stage.
The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly will begin on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, with the Opening of the General Assembly Debate.
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