Joint Statement On Behalf Of The Group Of 7 Plus Countries Delivered By His Excellency Brig (rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President Of The Republic At The Plenary Of The United Nations Summit Of The Future
September 23, 2024
UNHQ, New York
President of the General Assembly,
Secretary-General of the United Nations,
Colleague Heads of State and Government, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
1. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the g7+ countries, a collective of nations bound by our shared history of experiencing the horrors of conflict, the challenges of fragility, but with our unwavering commitment to peace, stability, resilience, and sustainable development.
2. As countries deeply affected by conflict and post-conflict circumstances, we understand all too well the cost of instability and the necessity of a united global response to build a future of peace, prosperity, and justice.
3. Today, we stand at the crossroads of history, as this Summit of the Future has offered us an opportunity to adopt the Pact for the Future, a roadmap for a more inclusive, secure, and sustainable world. For the g7+ countries, this moment is particularly crucial, as it is not just about envisioning the future but about transforming the present reality for millions of people living in fragile and conflict-affected contexts.
Mr. President,
4. Allow me to make six points to situate the g7+ countries in the Pact for the Future implementation. First, we call for national ownership and inclusive governance. The g7+ was founded on the principle that peace and development must be driven from within. We advocate for national ownership of development processes and insist that efforts to address fragility must be grounded in dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusive governance.
5. Second, promoting sustainable development in conflict-affected countries. The Sustainable Development Goals represent a shared vision for a better world, but for the g7+ countries, progress remains hindered by persistent challenges of fragility.
6. As we discuss sustainable development and financing for development at this Summit, it is essential that the unique needs of fragile and conflict-affected states are prioritized. We call for increased international cooperation, innovative financing mechanisms, and tailored approaches to ensure no country is left behind.
7. Third, fostering international peace and security. International peace and security form the bedrock of global development. For countries recovering from conflict, achieving peace is not a singular event but a continuous process of strengthening institutions, promoting the rule of law, and addressing the root causes of instability.
8. We call for enhanced multilateralism and global solidarity in preventing and addressing conflicts. We advocate for increased support to peacekeeping missions, mediation efforts, inclusive peace processes and post-conflict recovery programs.
9. Fourth, embracing science, technology, innovation, and digital cooperation. The rapid advancement of technology offers new avenues for development but also poses challenges, particularly for countries with fragile infrastructures. The digital divide must not become a new frontier of inequality.
10. We urge for equitable access to digital technologies and to invest in building the capacities of fragile states to benefit from the digital revolution. Science, technology, and innovation must improve service delivery, and enhance governance, and must be used to strengthen, rather than undermine, peace and security.
11. Fifth, youth and future generations as agents of change. The future of our nations lies in the hands of our young people. They are not just beneficiaries of the Pact for the Future. We must remain committed to investing in youth, ensuring their active participation in governance, peacebuilding, and economic development. We must create meaningful pathways for youth engagement in shaping a more just, inclusive, and peaceful world.
12. Sixth, transforming global governance and UN Security Council reform. As the global community grapples with complex challenges, it is evident that our multilateral institutions must be strengthened and reformed to reflect the realities of today’s world. The g7+ countries believe that global governance structures must be more inclusive, representative, and responsive to our needs.
13. In this context, Sierra Leone, in its national capacity, strongly advocates for a comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council. This reform must include a broader representation of the membership of the UN. It is time for the Security Council to reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21st century, ensuring representation, in particular permanent seats for Africa for a stronger voice in shaping global peace and security policies.
14. A reformed Security Council, grounded in equity and representation, will not only enhance its legitimacy but also improve its ability to respond swiftly and effectively to the world’s most pressing security challenges. We believe this will foster a more just and equitable global order, where the voices of fragile States are heard, and their experiences respected in the pursuit of lasting peace.
15. In closing Excellencies, the g7+ countries remain steadfast in our pursuit of peace, stability, and sustainable development. As we come together at this Summit of the Future, let us commit to building a future where no country is left behind, where peace is the right of all, and where our collective efforts are guided by the principles of equity, solidarity, and justice, forging a new path toward an equitable world for future generations.
Thank you.