International Relations Minister Lamola calls for the reformation of multilateral institutions
Institutions such as the UN, AU and EU have been criticised for falling behind at a time when conflicts are at boiling point, and a time when climate change, poverty and low economic growth present new challenges.
FILE: Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola. Picture: GCIS
JOHANNESBURG - International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola has called on multilateral institutions to be reformed as the globe faces a fresh wave of challenges.
On Monday, Lamola renewed the calls at the first of the G20 meetings held in the country since assuming the year-long rotational presidency earlier in December.
Although there are several longstanding global challenges at play, South Africa’s presidency comes at a time when conflicts are at a boiling point, climate change, poverty and low economic growth have also complicated the global outlook.
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The United Nations, African Union and European Union are among the institutions that have been previously criticised for falling behind.
Lamola said these institutions need to adapt.
“Now more than ever, multilateral institutions must be strengthened and reformed to deliver broad global consensus and serve as platforms to resolve disputes.”
He said reforms will also be on the agenda during South Africa’s G20 presidency.
“The multilateral institutions with economic and developmental mandates must be strengthened, as the need for their intervention is even much bigger.”