Notes on Interview with Secretary General Antonio Guterres

Introduction

• Interview with Secretary General Antonio Guterres on GZERO.
• Discussion on global governance, international law, and reforms.

Key Points Discussed

Democracy and Free Market

• Historical context: democracy and regulated free market as guiding principles.
• Present-day skepticism toward these ideas.

Importance of Rules-Based World

• Emphasis on living in a rules-based world.
• Necessity of international law and humanitarian law.
• Importance of accountability and addressing impunity.

Geopolitical Divides

• Deep geopolitical divides leading to disrespect for rules.
• Increased number of global conflicts and sense of impunity.
• The need for reform in global governance.

Role of the United Nations

• UN founded to combat impunity and disorder.
• Call for reforms in international institutions (Security Council, Bretton Woods System).
• Addressing global issues like conflicts, inequality, climate change, and AI.

Security Council Reform

Current Relevance

• Security Council reform gaining traction.
• Inclusion of African states as permanent members suggested.
• United States shows interest in principle.

Historical Context

• Africa's historic injustice due to colonialism.
• Lack of representation during the formation of institutions.
• Recognition of emerging economies needing representation.

Acceptance of African Members

• First-time acceptance by five permanent members for African members.
• United States' announcement for African permanent members.

Veto Power

• Discussion on the extension of veto power to African countries.
• Realistic outlook: five vetoes likely to remain unchanged.
• African countries desire veto power, but it is unlikely.

Conclusion

• Security Council reform is central in UN discussions and likely a key issue in future summits.
• Need for clear indications and actions towards implementing reforms.