This statement follows the first in-person meeting in New York on 27-28 April of the High-Level Advisory Board on Effective Multilateralism, an independent advisory body formed by the UN Secretary-General in support of Our Common Agenda. The following statement below was made by the Co-Chairs.
The High-Level Advisory Board on Effective Multilateralism recognizes that today’s challenges require new approaches to global cooperation. The starting point for our work is the UN Secretary-General’s call for bold, ambitious, and practical recommendations for improving the governance of issues for people today and for future generations.
The triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution presents a growing set of threats to our very existence. The global financial architecture benefits a small number and impedes the development of many more. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates the enormous potential for global cooperation, but also the risks of unequal global health systems. Digital advances offer hope for breakthroughs that can serve humanity, but also can drive even greater inequality. In a time of acute conflict, we face a stark reminder of the catastrophic risks that can quickly affect us all.
We see the deep divisions among and within States. We see the loss of trust in institutions and in the ability of global leaders to deliver for people. But we also see the incredible potential for innovation in times of crisis. And we are inspired by the millions of people who voiced their demands in the UN75 process and others, calling for more equitable, inclusive approaches to global decision-making.
Our Board is committed to offering a bold set of recommendations to meet these challenges and realize the promise of global cooperation at the 2023 Summit of the Future. We will seek equity and fairness in global decision-making. We will be guided by a vision of a multilateral system, with the UN at its core, that serves and includes people more directly. Effective global governance must support gender equity and deliver for young people, marginalized communities, and future generations.