Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has emphasized the necessity for the United Nations (UN) to evolve and adapt to meet the collective aspirations for peace and multilateralism. “The United Nations must continue to evolve and adapt if it is to fulfill our collective aspiration for peace and multilateralism. We join the call for reforming the UN to make it more agile, integrated, and equipped to deliver the aspirations of all people in an evolving global landscape,” Yunus stated in a message marking the United Nations Day on October 24, which commemorates the 80th anniversary of the UN’s founding.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Yunus, on behalf of Bangladesh, pledged continued efforts towards ensuring a stable and peaceful world, as envisioned in the UN Charter. He extended wishes for a happy ‘United Nations Day’ to all member states, partners in the UN System, and other stakeholders. Yunus highlighted the occasion as a moment for the international community to renew its commitment to building a world free from fear and want, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism and consensus-building that the UN embodies.
Over its eight decades, the UN has expanded its scope and deepened its global engagement, playing a crucial role in advancing peace and security, protecting human rights, and promoting sustainable development. Since joining the UN in 1974, Bangladesh has established itself as an active and contributing member, participating in UN peacekeeping operations and being one of the leading contributors to the UN blue helmet missions. Professor Yunus acknowledged the sacrifices made by Bangladeshi soldiers in these operations for the sake of peace.
Professor Yunus stressed the significance of a rules-based multilateral system for countries like Bangladesh, particularly in sustainable development, trade, and addressing the climate crisis. He expressed concern over unilateral measures and unequal treatment in bilateral relations. The Chief Adviser also noted the strain on multilateral diplomacy due to recent global conflicts, highlighting the impact of extreme nationalism and indifference to human suffering.
The ongoing genocide in Gaza and the persecution of the Rohingyas were cited as examples of cultural identity-based politics leading to human rights violations. Professor Yunus called for renewed international attention to these issues, urging the global community to address these crises with urgency.