Strengthening Multilateralism and core international principles for a rules-based order in a rapidly changing world – The importance of Civil Society contribution to the UN system

EESC opinion: Strengthening Multilateralism and core international principles for a rules-based order in a rapidly changing world – The importance of Civil Society contribution to the UN system

Key points

The EESC:

  • reiterates the European Union (EU) institutions' obligation to promote universal values according to Art. 2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and respect for the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter.
  • expects the UN to deliver on its own goals of maintaining peace and security, supporting sustainable development and implementing human rights to the benefit of an increasing number of people. Civil society's contribution is essential for solutions on the ground, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering a just transition and fighting climate change.
  • recommends to, in order to enhance the UN's ability to react efficiently to current global challenges, UN Member States in breach of the UN Charter or commitments under UN agreements or conventions should not be allowed to exercise full participation and voting rights.
  • expects the EU and its Member States to commit more than ever to strengthening the UN through fundamental reform. UN governance has to become more representative, inclusive and effective. To ensure more equal representation, the Global South needs a stronger say in the UN.
  • recommends that the UN has to further develop its integrated Civil Society Organizations System.
  • believes the EU's coordination needs to be improved. It should speak with a single voice and act accordingly in all UN bodies and related institutions. The EESC's contribution to the EU voluntary review and its involvement during the High Representative's presentation at the High-level Political Forum 2023 are good examples of progress.
  • recommends that in addition to the introduction of qualified majority decisions, a reform of the EU Treaties on foreign, security and defence policy is worth considering to improve the EU's ability to act and also enhance its influence in the UN.
  • commits to making its positions better heard in the processes of formulating the EU's common position on all UN-related matters, to more closely engaging with the EU and Member States' delegations to the UN and to developing a roadmap to engage more with UN bodies relevant to its work.