Singapore calls on UN to constrain Security Council vetoes, reform for greater inclusivity

Key Concepts:

• Multilateralism
• International Law
• UN Charter
• Sovereign Equality
• Territorial Integrity
• Political Independence
• Global Commons
• Comparative Advantage
• UN Security Council Reform
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• BBJ Treaty
• Cybersecurity Norms
• International Court of Justice (ICJ)

1. Historical Context and the Post-World War II Order:

• The period after World War II was unique due to the victors establishing a system based on sovereign equality, territorial integrity, and political independence for all nations.
• The UN and its Charter were central to governing interactions between sovereign states, with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) providing a forum for peaceful dispute resolution.
• This system fostered stability, predictability, and economic development, allowing countries like Singapore to thrive (Singapore's per capita GDP grew from $500 in 1965 to $85,000).
• The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea is cited as an example of managing the global commons, ensuring freedom of navigation and coordinating efforts on sea-level rise and pollution.
• Specialized UN agencies like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) set common rules for safety and efficiency.

2. Erosion of the Post-War Order:

• The speaker argues that the post-World War II order has ended due to shifts in economic, technological, and military power.
• The original underwriters of the system are now taking a more transactional view of their national interests and are less willing to provide public goods.
• Increased strategic competition between superpowers has reduced their ability to cooperate and manage the global commons.
• This has led to a more turbulent, uncertain, and violent world, with increased violations of international law, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
• The wars in the Middle East, Ukraine, and parts of Africa are cited as examples of this tragedy.

3. Specific Conflicts and Humanitarian Concerns:

• The humanitarian situation in Gaza is described as dire and shocking, with a call for an immediate ceasefire, unconditional release of hostages, and access to humanitarian aid.
• Singapore's position on recognizing a Palestinian state is conditional on the existence of an effective government that accepts Israel's right to exist and renounces terrorism. Unilateral annexation of occupied territory is opposed.
• The speaker emphasizes that a permanent member of the Security Council (referring to Russia) must comply with the UN Charter in the context of the Ukraine war.
• The victims in Sudan and other conflict zones are also mentioned.

4. Disruptions to the Multilateral Trading System:

• Progressive trade liberalization is at risk due to tariffs and export controls being used for unilateral advantage.
• The repudiation of the "most favored nation" principle erodes the transparent, rules-based multilateral system.
• This fragmentation risks compounding the tragedy of the commons, making collective action on issues like climate change and pandemics more difficult.
• Decisions should be based on scientific evidence and fairness to current and future generations.

5. Call to Action and Examples of Multilateral Success:

• Despite the pessimism, Singapore believes the multilateral system and international law, underpinned by the UN, remain the best way to uphold global peace and prosperity.
• Small states have agency and strategic autonomy to protect their long-term national interests.
• The speaker cites the BBJ Treaty (marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction), the cybersecurity agreement, and the WIPO treaties as examples of successful multilateral cooperation.
  • The BBJ Treaty will enter into force on January 17, 2026, having exceeded the 60 ratifications needed. Ambassador Rena Lee from Singapore is credited with presiding over the negotiations.
  • Consensus was reached on the final report of the open-ended working group on cybersecurity, strengthening norms for responsible state behavior. Mr. Bhanu Gafur chaired this group.
  • In 2024, two WIPO treaties on IP and genetic resources and riot design law treaty were concluded under the leadership of Mr. Darren Tang.
• The UN should remain an arena for dialogue and compromise.

6. Singapore's Commitment to International Law and the ICJ:

• Singapore will nominate Ambassador Rena Lee as a candidate for the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
• This nomination underscores Singapore's commitment to upholding international law and supporting the ICJ.
• If elected, Ambassador Lee would be the first woman from Southeast Asia to serve on the court.

7. Need for UN Reform:

• The UN needs to reform to be fit for purpose, becoming more representative and inclusive.
• The UN Security Council needs reform to better fulfill its mandate, with constraints on the use of vetos by the P5.
• The relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly should be strengthened.
• The UN needs to deliver tangible benefits to people on the ground, such as clean water, education, and pandemic preparedness.
• The commitments made at the Summit of the Future signal a resolve to implement the SDGs.
• The UN needs to harness the potential of emerging technologies like AI responsibly.

8. Concluding Remarks:

• The speaker quotes Singapore's first foreign minister, stating that Singapore has faith in the UN because without it, there is no worthwhile future for humanity.
• The speech concludes with a call to ensure that the UN continues to serve as humanity's best hope for peace and prosperity.