Sustaining Peace: Pakistan’s UN Engagement – OpEd
On October 24th, the world comes together to celebrate the founding of the United Nations (UN) and to reflect on the core principles that have shaped global governance for nearly eight decades. UN Day marks the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945, a monumental moment that established a framework for international cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world. In 2024, the theme "The Future We Want; the UN We Need! Reaffirming Our Collective Commitments to Multilateralism" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of global solidarity and cooperation in addressing the challenges that lie ahead.
UN Day is more than a celebration; it is a reaffirmation of the global community’s shared values of peace, justice, human rights, and sustainable development. As the UN navigates new challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and growing inequality, this day allows the world to reflect on how multilateralism can address these complex issues. The UN's foundational purpose, as enshrined in its Charter, is to prevent conflicts, promote peace, and protect the rights and dignity of people everywhere. Over the years, the organization has served as a platform for dialogue, bringing together nations to discuss and resolve pressing global concerns.
Today, in a world that is more interconnected than ever, the relevance of the UN cannot be overstated. The organization's commitment to "leaving no one behind" resonates deeply as nations grapple with issues that transcend borders, such as climate change, terrorism, and public health crises. Multilateralism is the key to achieving the collective goals of peace, security, and prosperity for all.
Since joining the UN in 1947, Pakistan has consistently advocated for peace, security, and cooperation. Its foreign policy has been deeply rooted in the principles of multilateralism, emphasizing the need for collective global efforts to address challenges ranging from conflict resolution to sustainable development. Pakistan's active participation in UN forums and initiatives highlights its belief in the power of diplomacy and international cooperation to foster global harmony.
One of Pakistan's most significant contributions to the UN is its role in peacekeeping operations. As one of the largest troop-contributing countries, Pakistan has deployed more than 235,000 troops to 48 missions across 29 countries. Pakistani peacekeepers have operated in some of the most dangerous conflict zones, consistently demonstrating bravery and professionalism. Their efforts have been pivotal in stabilizing war-torn societies, maintaining law and order, and enabling successful political transitions. Currently, over 2,600 Pakistani peacekeepers are deployed in seven UN missions, contributing as part of infantry battalions, engineering companies, aviation units, artillery batteries, and as military staff officers and observers. The spirit of sacrifice shown by Pakistani peacekeepers, with 181 having laid down their lives in the line of duty, underscores Pakistan's unwavering commitment to global peace.
Pakistan’s dedication to the peaceful resolution of disputes has been a central tenet of its foreign policy. This is evident in its longstanding advocacy for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions. Pakistan has consistently emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to conflicts and has played an active role in promoting peace in various international forums. The country believes that the UN remains the most legitimate platform for conflict resolution and global diplomacy, and it continues to call for stronger multilateral efforts to address unresolved conflicts.
Despite facing challenges, such as the shrinking space for peacekeeping operations due to changing global dynamics, Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to the UN’s peacekeeping agenda. The country’s troops have played an integral role in normalizing societies that have been torn apart by war, ensuring that law and order are restored and that political processes can proceed in a stable environment. This commitment reflects Pakistan’s belief in the UN’s ability to prevent conflicts, protect civilians, and maintain peace through collective efforts.
Pakistan is not only a proponent of peace but also a strong advocate for the UN's 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a developing country facing its own challenges, including poverty, inequality, and energy insecurity, Pakistan has made significant strides in integrating the SDGs into its national development agenda. The country recognizes that achieving sustainable development requires a concerted effort from all nations and continues to push for global cooperation in areas such as poverty eradication, quality education, gender equality, and clean energy.
Moreover, Pakistan is a vocal advocate for reforms within the UN to ensure that global governance structures are more inclusive and representative of the modern world. The current imbalances in political and economic power in international institutions are a cause for concern, and Pakistan has consistently called for just and equitable reforms. It stresses that reform should not only benefit a few powerful member states but should include the voices of smaller, less developed nations. This aligns with Pakistan's broader vision for a more equitable and just international order, where marginalized populations are empowered and included in global decision-making processes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the need for global cooperation in addressing transnational threats. Pakistan played a proactive role during the pandemic, advocating for equitable access to vaccines and financial support for developing nations. The pandemic demonstrated that no country, regardless of its wealth or resources, can tackle global challenges alone. Pakistan supports the idea that multilateral institutions like the UN are critical platforms for shared responsibility and joint action in the face of challenges such as pandemics, climate change, and international terrorism.
As the world faces the growing threat of climate change, Pakistan is increasingly vocal about the need for global cooperation to mitigate its impacts. The country has already experienced the devastating effects of climate-related disasters, such as floods and droughts, and recognizes that climate change is a global problem that requires a global solution. Pakistan remains committed to working with the international community to address these and other emerging challenges, reaffirming its belief in the power of multilateralism to build a better future for all.
On this UN Day, Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to the principles of multilateralism, cooperation, and collective action. The world is facing unprecedented challenges, but through institutions like the UN, there is hope for a safer, more equitable, and sustainable future. As a staunch advocate of peace, diplomacy, and sustainable development, Pakistan remains dedicated to working with the global community to achieve the goals of peace, security, and prosperity for all. It is through multilateralism that we can build "The Future We Want" and ensure "The UN We Need," making the world a better place for generations to come.