Forum Highlights Multilateralism's Role in Strengthening Global Cooperation

The United Nations in Jordan, in collaboration with the Politics and Society Institute and the University of Jordan, hosted a forum titled “Multilateralism and the UN Charter: Strengthening Global Cooperation for Humanity” on Thursday.

Held on the occasion of the 79th anniversary of the United Nations, the forum convened leaders, experts, and stakeholders to explore multilateralism’s role in addressing global challenges. Discussions focused on upholding the principles of the UN Charter, fostering international cooperation, and advancing sustainable development in a rapidly evolving global context.

The forum also highlighted Jordan’s commitment to diplomacy, peacebuilding, and regional cooperation, showcasing its leadership in addressing challenges such as climate change, humanitarian crises, and sustainable development.

Speaking at the forum’s opening, H.E. Ambassador Majid Qatarneh, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said “Jordan was one of the first countries, in November 2023, to bring together international aid agencies to coordinate efforts and to spearhead a truly international response to the situation in Gaza. Building on this momentum, Jordan hosted another conference titled “Call for Action: Urgent Humanitarian Response for Gaza,” which brought together 132 countries, agencies, and institutions, further underscoring Jordan’s dedication to multilateral diplomacy; and its deliberate utilization of it”.

Ms. Sheri Ritsema-Anderson, UN Resident Coordinator in Jordan, underscored the essential role of multilateralism: "For nearly 80 years, the United Nations has been a beacon of hope, bringing countries together to safeguard human rights, promote peace, and tackle inequality. Jordan stands as a particular testament to the power and promise of multilateralism, as a champion of dialogue over discord and a generous provider of protection and humanitarian assistance”.

“Yet amidst immense challenges, many have begun to lose faith in multilateral action, and in the United Nations itself. Achieving the United Nation’s goals depends on the sustained commitment of its member nations and the active participation of civil society and individuals. Let us work together to build a world where peace, cooperation, and justice prevail for all,” Ritsema-Anderson added.

Prof. Hasan Al Momani, Dean of the Prince Hussein Faculty for International Studies at the University of Jordan, emphasized the need to advocate for pragmatic and responsible international cooperation, with a focus on reforming global structures and overcoming challenges through critical thinking and comprehensive approaches. Regarding Jordan’s role, he highlighted that Jordan is a rational and influential player in foreign policies, consistently contributing to regional and international stability.

Dr. Rasha Fityan, Executive Director of the Politics and Society Institute for her part, underscored the United Nations’ role in providing a model for multilateral cooperation to address challenges, ranging from climate change to conflicts. She noted that the organization faces growing challenges, particularly with the rise of unilateralism and the declining international commitment to humanitarian law and human rights, “which have never been luxuries but rather the foundation of peace and justice in the world”.

The forum featured two sessions.

The first session, “The UN Charter and Multilateralism in the 21st Century,” examined the Charter’s relevance in tackling challenges of today’s world, including conflict and inequality. Panelists, including Prof. Hasan Al Momani, Dean of the Prince Hussain Faculty for International Studies at the University of Jordan, Sir Charles Petrie, former Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations and peace building expert, and H.E. Dr. Marwan Muasher, Vice President for Studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discussed strategies to strengthen global and regional multilateralism, with a focus on Jordan’s leadership in advancing peacebuilding.

The second session, “Multilateralism in Action” highlighted the practical realities of how the UN advances the common goals of humanity through its work in the Middle East, with a focus on Gaza and Yemen. Panelists, including Hans Grundberg, Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Yemen, and Scott Anderson, UN Deputy Humanitarian Coordinator and Director of UNRWA Affairs in Gaza, discussed the critical role of multilateral cooperation in advancing peace and providing relief to vulnerable communities in the region.

ENDS