Statement by the Republic of Latvia at the UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance”
New York, 20 February 2025
Mr. President,
At the outset, I would like to thank China’s presidency for convening this important meeting and the UN Secretary-General for sharing his valuable perspective.
Latvia aligns itself with the statement of the European Union.
Excellencies,
The centrepiece of international cooperation is the United Nations. We all know that if the UN did not exist, it would have to be invented. At a time of an increasing stress of the multilateral system, the effective UN is precisely what we need today, more than ever.
For Latvia, multilateralism is both a conviction and an interest. It is marked by Latvia’s rightful return to the community of European states over twenty years ago, as the result of long-term and determined work that began in 1991 when Latvia regained its independence. The European project, born from the ashes of the Second World War, is an example of how multilateralism and regional integration bring peace, prosperity and growth.
To this end, I wish to share three recommendations for our joint action: uphold principles of the UN Charter, reform the UN Security Council and address emerging domains of conflict.
First, principles of the UN Charter are paramount.
There is no substitute for a strengthened UN-led multilateral system – in which all Member States uphold and honour their commitments under the Charter – and where the principles of sovereign equality of states, territorial integrity and independence must be always protected.
Multilateralism is existential for all states - large or small. But let’s be honest – it will only work if all UN member states recognize their obligations under the international law, including the UN Charter and Security Council resolutions, which are legally binding. Impunity for the violations of the UN Charter destroys the international system.
In this context, Russia must be held accountable for its aggression against Ukraine. We must not tolerate the world where might makes right.
Latvia will continue to underscore the importance of international law, including principles of the UN Charter, as a cornerstone of multilateralism.
Second point is the reform of the UN Security Council.
Latvia strongly supports revitalization of the UN system and reform of the UN Security Council. The number of permanent members of the Security Council should be expanded. The Council needs to become more effective, inclusive and accountable.
It is high time for Africa to have a permanent presence at the Security Council table. Also, the Small Island Developing States deserve a non-permanent seat. Their voice must be heard, in light of existential threats posed by the climate change.
Latvia is fully prepared to shoulder its part of the responsibility towards a broader UN membership. For the first time, my country is running for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council at the upcoming elections in June.
Thirdly, addressing emerging threats.
UN Secretary General in his priorities for this year has rightly highlighted challenges ahead: conflict, inequalities, climate crisis and perils of unchecked technology.
In this context, multilateralism is not an end in itself, but rather a means to overcome crises that transcend borders. By pooling forces, we have brought to life the Pact for the Future, which is a historic international commitment aimed to create a world that is more equitable, sustainable, and prepared for the challenges of the coming decades. Let us also look beyond state actors and reach out to young people, academics and other stakeholders who collectively shape our future.
Mr. President,
We must defend the integrity of our global system. It is our collective task to ensure that the world is not governed by fear and conflict, but by peace and mutual respect.
I thank you!