Ref: 2024/PR/337
The United Nations was the answer to a call for action to heal divisions and build peace. It was the change that offered people hope and made the world a better place. Its founding document, the Charter of the United Nations, which entered into force seventy-nine years ago today, serves as a path for a world where peace and security, human rights, rule of law, and sustainable development prevail. These principles endure even today and remain an anchor for cooperation and solidarity.
Since becoming a member of the United Nations in 1965, the Maldives has been a firm believer in the multilateral system. This prestigious platform affords Small Island Developing States (SIDS) such as the Maldives, the opportunity to voice its needs and concerns.
At the United Nations, we have been a leading voice for SIDS, a strong advocate for climate action, human rights and sustainable development. Yet, outdated global systems, old and new conflicts, climate change, financing gaps and economic inequality continue to challenge the relevance of the United Nations.
The world needs a United Nations that is ready to step up and put meaning to its words and actions. A United Nations that can stop exploitation, suffering, climate change and environmental degradation. A United Nations that can boldly act against Israel’s genocidal acts in Palestine. A United Nations that is representative and fit for purpose. A United Nations that is reformed, representative and responsive. A United Nations that can uplift people.
Guided by the values that unites us, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, The Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), and the Pact for the Future, we are assured that the United Nations will continue to deliver for its member States – “we the peoples”.
ENDS