The 79th session of the UNGA, chaired by Cameroon’s Phi- lemon Yang has the potential to influence international diplo- macy and foster a culture of dialogue among member states.
As global tensions rise and conflicts proliferate, the Uni ted Nations General Assem bly stands at a critical juncture
in its efforts to promote peace and prevent future conflicts. One of the primary functions of the UNGA is to serve as a forum for multilateral dia logue. By facilitating discussions among member states, the Assembly can address the root causes of conflicts, such as poverty, inequality, and human rights violations. Came roon has had its fare share of conflicts and the current crisis in the anglo phone regions makes one ponder on ways in which lasting solutions can be arrived at. In Javier Pérez de Cuéllar’s Agenda for Peace, he outlines that prioritizing discussions on disarma ment, climate change, and socioeco nomic development, creates a comprehensive approach to peace building.
Cameroon’s authorities have not re lented efforts in restoring peace and order in the challenged regions and have the wherewithal to engage civil society and grassroots organizations as part of the peace initiatives. If only incorporating diverse perspectives, in cluding those from affected commu nities can put the stop to the ongoing situation, then efforts in that light would be sustainable. Many have at tested to community involvement being crucial for the success of peace initiatives, as it fosters local ownership and resilience. The current session of the UNGA is also tasked with addres sing pressing global challenges, inclu ding climate change and pandemics, which can exacerbate tensions. Hope fully, the UNGA’s ability to promote peace and prevent future conflicts hin ged on multilateral cooperation, inclu sive dialogue, and proactive engage ment with global challenges will ex tend to Cameroon, as this could be cru cial especially for Cameroon born Philemon Yang, Chair of the 79th ses sion.
Summit of the Future On the sidelines of the UNGA, the Summit will produce an intergovern mentally negotiated, actionoriented Pact for the Future with chapters on Sustainable development and finan cing for development; International peace and security; Science, techno logy and innovation and digital co operation; Youth and future generations; and Transforming global governance. Rapid advances in tech nology and science hold the promise of a better, more peaceful and pros perous future for people and the pla net. Yet, in this interconnected and fastchanging world,
keeping pace with emerging risks and opportunities is not evident. Facing all these as a global community is thus of the essence.
Claudette CHIN
