Ban Ki-moon

on the future of multilateralism

Former Secretary-General of the United Nations Fisher Family Fellow 2018-2019

Nationalism, self-interest, and isolationism—alongside great power competition and the ongoing battle between democratic and autocratic systems of government—will pose the most significant challenges to the functionality of multilateralism in the decade ahead. But there will also be vital opportunities to confront these challenges in the post-COVID-19 era and, at the same time, construct a world that is more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient for our future generations. To do so, we must elevate the transformational utility of global citizenship to help bring us together and decisively tackle climate change, achieve sustainable development, and build peace and resolve conflicts. This vision of global citizenship needs to be adopted, particularly, by national political and business leaders, as well other key stakeholders, in order to bolster the dynamic partnerships that will catalyze cooperation, lessen divisions, and steer our multilateral future to new heights.

What advice do you have for the next generation of diplomatic practitioners?

With this in mind, global citizenship should also serve as the raison d’être for the next generation of diplomatic practitioners. The international community needs you to fight for the protection of our planet and gender equality, look beyond the narrow prism of national and personal interests, and build bridges rather than construct walls.

Former Secretary of State John Kerry meets with students during a visit on February 25, 2020.