Can Asia reinvigorate multilateralism?

The fact that the entire United Nations system is in crisis is no longer a novelty at the global level. This sad reality is widely recognized. There are, of course, differences in the degree of criticism expressed about it, but there seems to be an unspoken consensus that something urgent must be done, at least in the diplomatic sphere. But what exactly? That question was a major topic during the six days (23–29 September 2025) when speakers from 189 of the United Nations' 193 Member States - including 83 Heads of State, 41 Heads of Government, and 45 ministers - took the rostrum to take stock of the present state of the world at the General Assembly's eightieth session.

In this chronicle, we will focus only on a selected number of declarations made by Asian leaders. This choice is justified by the fact that, demographically, Asia is the largest continent in the world. The estimated total population of Asia in 2025 is approximately 4.98 billion people, representing about 60% to 62% of the global population.

Instead of offering the usual generalizations about the UNGA deliberations, we will share with readers the original words from the full texts of the speakers, highlighting their positions on multilateralism and the value of solidarity - two conditions that, if they are to succeed, can coexist only together.

According to China "As members of the global family, we must uphold justice while pursuing our own interests. This is particularly true for the major countries. Only when all countries, big or small, are treated as equals and true multilateralism is practiced, can the rights and interests of all parties be better protected." The Chinese representative also reaffirmed what he called "a simple yet powerful point -- solidarity lifts everyone up, while division drags all down. The road ahead might be hard and bumpy, but when all countries unite as one and collaborate in good faith, our strengths will converge into a mighty force with which we can withstand any headwind and cross any hurdle."

The representative of India, the largest demographic power of the world, critically observed that " An objective report card will show that the UN is in a state of crisis. When peace is under threat from conflicts, when development is derailed by lack of resources, when human rights are violated by terrorism, the UN remains gridlocked. As its ability to forge common ground diminishes, belief in multilateralism also recedes….. Every member who can make this world a better place must have the opportunity to do their utmost. And for that to happen, reformed multilateralism is the obvious way. The ninth decade of the UN must be one of leadership and hope."

Japon invited UN member states to join in calling for: Reform of the Security Council as soon as possible; A "world without nuclear war" and a "world without nuclear weapons";A world that can overcome global challenges together;and, Solidarity and tolerance, not division and confrontation. "

Indonesia declared: "The United Nations was born from the ashes of the Second World War, created to secure peace, security, justice, and freedom for all. We remain committed to internationalism, to multilateralism, and to every effort that strengthens this great institution."…." We Indonesians know what it means to be denied justice, what it means to live in apartheid, to live in poverty, and to be denied equal opportunity. But we also knew what solidarity can do"

At its turn, the Republic of Korea affirmed that it "will fulfill its responsibility as a responsible global power that steadfastly upholds the values of freedom, human rights, inclusiveness and solidarity championed by the United Nations."

Using a highly critical approach to the current state of the world, Cambodia reminded that: "As we gather to celebrate this important milestone, the ideals of multilateralism are being tested. Geopolitical divisions have deepened: great power rivalries too often obstruct Security Council decisions, leaving unresolved crises in many parts of the world and millions of lives at risk. The world now faces the harsh reality that 'might makes right' and that interdependence is no longer the cornerstone of peace, but rather a tool of threat and coercion."

In a realistic manner, a representative of a smaller country affirmed :" Bhutan believes in a United Nations that is representative, responsive, and effective. We seek a multilateralism that delivers results, not just resolutions."

Another small country , Papua New Guinea thanked :" The United Nations for embracing us since 1975, • Our bilateral and multilateral partners, • Australia for peacefully granting independence, • Investors, NGOs, and churches for their enduring service. Your solidarity has kept us united."

The smallest ASEAN's member, Brunei Darussalam, said: "The theme of this year's General Assembly, "Better Together," is more than a slogan. It is a responsibility. It means renewing our faith in multilateralism…. For small states, multilateralism is not an option. It is our lifeline. As we confront climate change, pandemics, inequality, and conflict, no nation can stand alone. Only together can we secure a peaceful, just, and sustainable world for generations yet to come."

In the opinion of Thailand "Multilateralism is more effective when women participate fully - whether in peacekeeping, conflict prevention, or humanitarian response. Their voices, leadership strengthen our community and make peace more durable…. Peace and human rights cannot stand without sustainable development. Yet today, development is under threat from rising protectionism. Tariffs and trade barriers may serve short-term interests, but they hurt us all in the long run and divide us when we need the most solidarity."

Similar views were expressed by the Philippines according to which "In our reflection on evolving multilateralism to be more fit-for-purpose, we must consider progress in the way we account for our stewardship of resources. Our economic models must account for the health of our planet.

Another Asian country, United Arab Emirates, launched a vibrant appeal :" to strengthen the mechanisms for international cooperation and multilateralism, as well as the norms and principles of the UN Charter and international law. In doing so, the UAE promotes the principles of good neighbourliness and respect for sovereignty of states, to create opportunities and advance progress in every field."Te representative of the same country evoked the fact that "With the previous international systems having failed to maintain international peace and security, the world was faced with a choice. It chose peace and embraced a new era of international cooperation and solidarity, embodied by the establishment of this Organization."

Nepal took the opportunity to underline the fact that "The UN Charter is a bedrock of our foreign policy. It is a compass that guides our action on the global stage. This reflects Nepal's enduring belief in multilateralism, international cooperation, and global solidarity –principles that define who we are as a nation." Nepal addressed an urgent call "To reassess, strengthen, and revitalize our multilateral institutions, and To fortify global solidarity and action."

Timor-Leste invited UN member states to" renew our commitment to multilateralism – not as an abstract principle, but as a daily practice of listening, compromise and joint action. Timor-Leste, through its hard-won independence, stands as proof that when the international community acts with unity and determination, even the smallest and most fragile States can take their rightful place in the family of nations."The same representative declared that "Timor-Leste joins the collective effort to promote harmony, solidarity and inclusion, contributing to global and regional challenges."

Conclusion

During the General Assembly's high level debate, in addition to the representatives quoted above,many other speakers reaffirmed that today's global crises - wars, climate change, inequality, and humanitarian emergencies - can only be addressed through strengthened multilateralism and renewed solidarity.

Several delegations warned that unilateralism, protectionism, and the erosion of trust in international institutions threaten peace and sustainable development. Small and vulnerable States, including in particular those in Africa and the Pacific, called for fairer international financial systems, collective climate action, and global cooperation to protect their sovereignty and development. Many emphasized that the United Nations must remain at the heart of the international order, adapting through reforms that ensure inclusiveness, justice, and shared responsibility. Across regions, speakers highlighted solidarity - particularly with peoples facing occupation, poverty, or climate threats - as a moral and practical imperative for a fairer and more secure world

To finish this chronique, it is opportune to note that US President Donald Trump delivered a critical statement in the plenary of the world organization, but, according to the press, during a meeting with the UN Secretary General,he optimistically stressed, " I think the potential of the United Nations is incredible, really incredible… So, I'm behind it. I may disagree with it sometimes, but I am so behind it because I think the potential for peace with this institution is so great."

We can only hope that this potential will be translated into tangible realities in a not too distant future.