New York, USA – The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, delivered a profound and wide-ranging address to the 80th United Nations General Assembly today, presenting a critical analysis of the current global order and reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to multilateralism. Speaking to a global audience of heads of state and government, the President called for renewed international cooperation to confront a series of interconnected challenges, from state fragility to global food insecurity.
Warning Against the Erosion of International Norms
President Mohamud began his speech by reflecting on the core principles upon which the UN was founded—peace, security, and development—and lamented the world’s drift from these ideals. He expressed deep concern that instead of upholding international law, the world is witnessing an “unapologetic rise of national might to settle disputes”. The President described this trajectory as a “truly dark and dangerous path” that threatens the rule-based international order that member states collectively agreed upon. He argued that nations should be working to come together rather than seeking justifications for division.
Addressing Global Insecurity and Stagnation
The President detailed several crises that he stated are undermining global stability and the pursuit of shared prosperity:
- Sustainable Development: President Mohamud highlighted the collective failure to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that the number of fragile states and populations living in poverty is increasing globally.
- State Fragility: He pointed out that over 30 UN member states, including Somalia, are currently classified as fragile due to a combination of conflict, climate change, and institutional instability.
- Food Crisis: Citing figures from the World Food Programme, he stated that a staggering 319 million people are currently facing acute hunger across 67 countries.
- Rapid Urbanization: The President also brought attention to the fastest pace of urbanization in human history, driven by conflict, climate change, and a lack of economic opportunities in rural areas.
He stressed that these stark facts must prompt a collective pause for reflection and action, urging a redoubling of efforts to strengthen multilateralism and solidarity to achieve common progress.
Somalia’s Role and a Call for Peace in Palestine
President Mohamud affirmed Somalia’s dedication to its role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, stating that the country is working to promote the ideals of peace, stability, and shared opportunities. He noted that Somalia is actively working with other Security Council members to find solutions for peace in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
A powerful segment of his speech was dedicated to the plight of the Palestinian people. The President expressed deep concern over their “continued suffering,” citing ongoing violence, displacement, and deprivation in the occupied territories, including Gaza. He called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access, and a renewed commitment to a two-state solution as the only viable path to a just and lasting peace in the region.
In conclusion, President Mohamud’s address positioned Somalia as a committed and responsible partner in the global community, willing to contribute to solutions for the world’s most pressing challenges while navigating its own path to development and stability.
