To transform global governance, the United Nations adopted the Pact for the Future on Sunday during the 79th UN General Assembly at the UN Headquarters in New York. The Pact for the Future is a comprehensive international agreement that addresses present-day challenges and establishes a framework for future cooperation in key areas.
The Pact’s five key focus areas include sustainable development, international peace and security, science and technology, youth and future generations, and transforming global governance.
The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted the Pact for the Future, along with its annexes, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations.
According to the UN’s Secretary-General, these new initiatives will open doors to new opportunities and possibilities.
António Guterres, Secretary General of United Nations said “I called for this summit to consider deep reforms to make global institutions more legitimate, fair, and effective based on the values of the UN Charter. I called for this summit because 21st-century challenges require 21st-century solutions. Frameworks that are networked and inclusive and that draw on the expertise of all of humanity. I called for this summit because our world is heading off the rails and we need tough decisions to get back on track.”
By endorsing the pact, the UN Member States are committing to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement and include young people in decision-making processes.
Member states will also strengthen partnerships with civil society, the private sector, and local authorities.
In his statement at the Summit of the Future, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay emphasised Bhutan’s unwavering determination as the pact aligns with the country’s national goals.
“For Bhutan, this pact aligns well with our national aspiration to become a developed country by 2034. It reaffirms our shared vision and reinvigorates our commitment to achieving the SDGs. To realise these ambitious goals, we must muster the political will to transcend rhetoric and take decisive action. We must prioritise policies that serve the common good over narrow interests.”
He added that international collaboration is essential for the success of the Pact for the Future.
The summit brought together over 4,000 individuals including Heads of State and governments, observers, international NGOs, the UN System, civil society and non-governmental organizations.
Bhutan became a member of the United Nations in 1971.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Tshering Zam
