Putin demands UN reform against Western countries’ influence
Russian President Vladimir Putin called for urgent reforms at the United Nations during his address on Thursday at the 23rd annual meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club. The forum, themed “Responsibility for the Future: Limits of the Possible, or Limitless Possibilities?” provided a platform for Putin to express his concerns about the UN’s functioning.
In his remarks, Putin referred to the UN Charter, emphasizing that the organization should serve as a central coordinating mechanism in international affairs. He argued that while the UN is the most representative international organization, its current management deviates from the collective and democratic principles upon which it was founded.
“A narrow grouping of Western countries wields a disproportionately large influence,” Putin stated, describing this group as a global minority that attempts to dominate administrative functions within the UN.
He noted that the imbalance within the UN system has become increasingly evident as countries have perceived a decrease in their influence, which has been overtaken by a more independent and confident global majority.
Putin reiterated Russia’s position advocating for balanced UN reforms, asserting that achieving such changes requires a consensus that is currently challenging to attain. He expressed the need for a UN structure that accurately reflects global diversity, enabling nations from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East to fulfill a more significant role in decision-making.
According to Putin, meaningful UN reform involves more than simply expanding the Security Council or enhancing geographical representation in international governing bodies. He also emphasized the importance of redefining the UN’s substance and priorities to address new challenges arising from global changes that have emerged over the years.
