The Rio Times

This resistance is fueled by worries over the UN's potential neglect of democratic values and national independence.

The global community is now paying close attention to this matter.

During the UN's latest SDG Summit and 78th General Assembly, a controversial political statement on pandemic readiness was up for approval.

The document was to be adopted using a 'silence procedure', a method criticized for its lack of safety and modern relevance.

If countries didn't object, the declaration would pass by default.

Critics say the document is all show and no substance, lacking real commitments. Many leaders skipped the discussions altogether.

Eleven nations, including Belarus and Bolivia, voiced their objections in writing.

Their letter highlighted concerns over unfair processes, bias, and the power of vetoes to shape the agenda of the General Assembly.

A key issue was the deletion of wording from previous drafts that discouraged countries from taking independent economic actions not aligned with international law.

This change could pave the way for sanctions that might harm public health and sovereignty.

Support for the letter came from groups like the Group of 77 and China, signaling broader dissatisfaction with UN actions.

The representatives from these eleven countries contested the official adoption of the draft documents, reserving their right for further steps.

The Old Institutions

In response, UN and WHO chiefs greenlit the political statement on pandemic readiness, apparently brushing aside member states’ concerns.

This act has intensified worries about the UN’s one-sided decision-making and scant regard for international rules.

Read Full Story