Building a Just and Rational Global Governance System

Key Takeaways from the Boao Forum for Asia

The Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference, held in April 2023, emphasized the need for reinvigorated multilateralism in addressing pressing global challenges and building a just and rational global governance system.

Multilateralism is essential: Vice-Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong stressed the importance of true multilateralism, replacing group confrontation with inclusive cooperation, and breaking "small circles" with greater unity. He urged major countries to lead by example in upholding integrity and the rule of law.

Chen highlighted the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind, along with the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, as guiding principles for addressing common challenges.

Ban Ki-moon, chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia and former UN Secretary-General, emphasized the role of the UN and the multilateral system in addressing global challenges. He called for diplomacy, not violence, and cooperation, not protectionism.

Guy Ryder, UN Undersecretary-General for Policy, acknowledged the challenges faced by the global body, including disruptions, uncertainties, and questioning of multilateralism's legitimacy. He stressed the need for the rule of law and cooperation to prevail over confrontation and "might is right" mentality.

The Boao Forum for Asia served as a platform for discussing the future of global governance and the need for international cooperation in addressing pressing challenges.