Multilateralism, Global South, Terrorism And More: Key Highlights From EAM S Jaishankar's Speech At UN General Assembly

In his speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Sunday (29 September), External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called for urgent reform in multilateralism, highlighting global divisions worsened by crises like the Ukraine war and climate change.

He also emphasised India's focus on empowering vulnerable populations, promoting digital transformation, and advocating for a more inclusive global order.

Here are the key highlights of Jaishankar's speech at UNGA:

1. Global challenges and the need for reform

Jaishankar highlighted the growing difficulties faced by the world, pointing out that "the world stands fractious, polarized and frustrated."

He referenced major crises, including the war in Ukraine, the conflict in Gaza, and the lingering impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, all of which have strained global cooperation.

Jaishankar emphasised that multilateral institutions, particularly the UN, are at a critical juncture, stating that “reforming multilateralism is, therefore, an imperative” to restore the credibility and functionality of global governance.

2. Struggles of the Global South and development setbacks

Jaishankar brought attention to the specific challenges faced by developing countries, particularly those in the Global South.

He expressed concern that “development plans have gone off rails, and SDG targets are receding,” as unfair trade practices and unviable projects continue to threaten jobs and raise debt levels.

The EAM underscored the need for the international community to act responsibly, particularly when it comes to addressing disparities in climate action, as the “evasion of climate action responsibilities by the developed undermines the growth prospects of the developing.”

3. India’s focus on vulnerable populations

Turning to India’s domestic priorities, Jaishankar outlined the country’s efforts to uplift its most vulnerable citizens.

He highlighted programmes aimed at improving access to essential services, including “piped water, electricity, cooking gas, and new homes.”

He noted that these initiatives have had a transformative effect on millions of lives, with women and marginalised groups benefiting the most.

Jaishankar also pointed out that “495 million Mudra loans have been given to small businesses in the last decade, 67 per cent of them to women,” showcasing India’s commitment to empowering its citizens.

4. Digital transformation as a model for global empowerment

Jaishankar emphasised the transformative potential of digital technologies, stating that “nothing is more powerful in this regard than the transformative potential of the digital.”

He highlighted India’s digital public infrastructure, particularly in areas like financial inclusion and healthcare delivery, serves as a global model for how technology can be used to empower, not dominate.

He cited the example of “small business loans" and farmers’ support, and how street vendors have embraced fintech solutions in their daily lives, ensuring that more people are not left behind.

5. Condemnation of terrorism and criticism of Pakistan

In a strong message on terrorism, Jaishankar reiterated India’s position that “terrorism is antithetical to everything that the world stands for.”

In a veiled attack on China, he criticised efforts to block sanctions against global terrorists at the UN for political reasons.

Jaishankar also singled out Pakistan’s role in perpetuating cross-border terrorism.

In a direct statement, he said, “Pakistan’s cross-border terrorism policy will never succeed, and it can have no expectation of impunity.”

He called for the immediate resolution of the issue of Pakistan’s “illegally occupied Indian territory” and made it clear that India’s position on terrorism is resolute.

6. The need for democratising global production

Jaishankar stressed the importance of addressing economic inequalities created by over-concentration of production in certain regions, which has led to job losses and social instability in many countries.

He called for “democratizing global production” and building more resilient supply chains to ensure widespread prosperity.

This, he argued, is critical to overcoming the economic challenges that have left many nations vulnerable and unable to compete in the current global system.

7. India’s contributions to global well-being

Jaishankar highlighted India’s significant contributions to global development, noting that the country has undertaken projects in “78 nations,” provided resources to its neighbours, and played a key role in humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

He emphasised that India’s approach to global challenges is based on cooperation and inclusivity, with initiatives ranging from maritime safety and security to ensuring access to affordable medicines.

8. Call for a more representative and effective UN

Jaishankar emphasised the need for a reformed UN that is more representative of the current global order.

He stated that “an effective and efficient UN, a more representative UN, and a UN fit for purpose in the contemporary era is essential.”

The EAM called for member nations to come together, share resources, and strengthen their resolve to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges, ensuring that “large parts of the world cannot be left behind” when it comes to making key decisions for the future.

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