Monrovia, Liberia—At a high-level UN Security Council meeting in New York, Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti, called for a renewed commitment to justice, multilateralism, and respect for international law. Speaking at the Open Debate on Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Upholding the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter through Effective Multilateralism, Minister Nyanti commended the People’s Republic of China for organizing what she called a crucial and pertinent conversation in light of growing geopolitical tensions and global instability.
Nyanti stressed in her speech on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration that Liberia, one of the original members of the UN, is still dedicated to the core principles of the UN Charter and that no country should use its own might to oppress others. Nyanti cautioned that the covenant is currently in jeopardy due to growing national mistrust, division, and the selective application of international law. She emphasized that the impartial and uniform application of laws and principles is essential to the international system’s credibility.
Reflecting on Liberia’s own experience with conflict and rehabilitation, the foreign minister noted that the nation has firsthand knowledge of the catastrophic effects of instability and failing institutions. Recalling the involvement of the international community in assisting Liberia’s peace process, reconstructing institutions, and reestablishing democratic administration following years of civil conflict, she stated that Liberia understands the importance of a cohesive and resolute council.
Nyanti maintained that all nations, regardless of size or influence, should equally benefit from the preservation of world peace and stability. She also attacked “selective multilateralism,” which she defined as the practice of enforcing international law differently based on political expediency. The foreign minister added that such inconsistency undermines confidence in international organizations and threatens the core principles of the UN Charter.
The foreign minister also emphasized the major worldwide issues that pose a danger to peace and security, such as poverty, inequality, marginalization, and poor resource management. She stated that greater international cooperation is necessary to handle these problems together. Liberia’s declaration coincides with a period of increased international tension, as the efficacy of international organizations, especially the United Nations Security Council, is being tested by continuous conflicts and geopolitical rivalries.
In closing, Nyanti urged member states to reaffirm their commitment to the values of communication, international equality, and shared accountability while tackling global challenges. According to her, the Charter is more than just a historical record. Peace, fairness, and collaboration must continue to be at the core of international relations as a living pledge to humanity.
