French-Brazilian call to strengthen multipolarity
In a significant telephone conversation, French President Emmanuel Macron and his Brazilian counterpart, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, reaffirmed their shared vision of the need to strengthen the role of the United Nations as the cornerstone of the global order. This call underscored the importance of upholding international law and countering unilateralism in managing global crises, emphasizing that any initiatives related to international peace and security must remain within the framework of the UN Security Council's mandate.
Historical background: A long-standing demand for Security Council reform
This call comes amid a decades-long global debate about the need to reform the structure of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council. The Council was established after World War II to reflect the balance of power at the time, but today it faces increasing criticism for its inability to represent contemporary geopolitical realities. Brazil, as part of the G4 (which also includes Germany, India, and Japan), has long been a leading advocate for expanding the Council's permanent membership to include emerging regional powers from Africa, Asia, and Latin America. France, also a permanent member, supports the idea of expanding the Council to make it more representative and effective, arguing that the current global order requires broader participation to address challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and complex armed conflicts.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
The Franco-Brazilian consensus represents a strong political boost to efforts to reform the international system. Regionally, this stance reinforces Brazil's position as a diplomatic leader in South America and an influential voice for the Global South. For France, this partnership is part of its strategy to promote a multipolar world order and build bridges with rising powers to counter the hegemony of traditional great powers. Internationally, this joint call sends a clear message that sustainable solutions to global crises, whether in Ukraine or the Middle East, can only be achieved through multilateral cooperation and adherence to the principles of international law as embodied by the United Nations. Strengthening the role of the UN is seen as a bulwark against the erosion of international legitimacy and the formation of parallel blocs or bodies that could exacerbate global polarization.
The situation in Venezuela is on the table for discussion
In addition to global issues, the two presidents also addressed the tense situation in Venezuela, emphasizing their condemnation of any use of force in violation of international law. They stressed the importance of dialogue and peaceful solutions to maintain stability in South America, reflecting their shared commitment to supporting democracy and human rights in the region and the world.
