The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, delivered a compelling speech at the 72nd United Nations General Assembly in New York. President Tshisekedi underscored the importance of bolstering multilateral cooperation to tackle contemporary global challenges, including climate change, security threats, economic disparities, and the promotion of human rights.
In his address, President Tshisekedi highlighted that the United Nations was founded on the principles of multilateralism and cooperation among nations. He aligned his message with the theme of the 72nd General Assembly, “No One Left Behind,” which calls for collective action to ensure peace, stability, and sustainable development. This theme serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of global issues.
The President stressed the necessity of multilateralism in addressing insecurity and terrorism, particularly in Africa. The continent is plagued by conflicts and instability in various regions, with the DRC facing significant challenges due to armed conflict and the proliferation of militia groups in its eastern regions, notably M23. His call for enhanced security measures highlights the reality that insecurity can easily transcend national borders, escalating into regional crises. This underscores the urgent need for a more coordinated international response, including more effective peacekeeping missions and conflict prevention strategies.
President Tshisekedi also emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts to combat climate change. He pointed to the DRC’s initiatives in reducing global carbon emissions through afforestation in the Congo Basin, home to one of the world’s largest rainforests. By advocating for multilateral partnerships in environmental protection, Tshisekedi called for increased funding for sustainable development projects and the establishment of innovative frameworks for environmental governance.
Additionally, the President urged for economic collaboration among nations to foster growth. He called for foreign investment and infrastructure development, highlighting the need for multilateral economic partnerships to address inequalities and promote inclusive development. Such collaborations could pave the way for new trade agreements and investment opportunities, thereby tackling poverty and enhancing resilience against global economic shocks.
Tshisekedi further stressed the role of multilateralism in upholding human rights and promoting good governance. He asserted that “sustainable development cannot be achieved without respect for human dignity and democratic principles.” This reinforces the idea that multilateralism must prioritise democratic values and support governance reforms and human rights initiatives across Africa and beyond.
President Tshisekedi’s address at the UN General Assembly serves as a powerful reminder of the principles on which the organisation was founded. His call to action on security, climate change, economic cooperation, and human rights underscores the need for unity, shared responsibility, and a commitment to working together for a more interconnected and resilient global community.
