The recent IPS article, “UNGA’s High-Level Meetings: NGOs Banned Again,” has brought to light a disturbing truth – the United Nations, an organization built on the promise of “We the Peoples,” continues to shut out the very communities it was established to represent. It is a paradox that has plagued the UN for decades, but one that cannot be ignored any longer.
As we shared this article with our members, we were struck by the stark and painful reality of the situation. How can an institution that claims to uphold the values of inclusivity and equality, repeatedly exclude the voices of those who are most in need of representation? This question has haunted us for years and it is time for us to demand concrete action from the UN.
The UN General Assembly, the highest decision-making body of the organization, is currently holding its annual high-level meetings. These meetings are crucial as they set the agenda for the UN’s work for the coming year. They bring together world leaders, UN officials, and civil society organizations to discuss global challenges and find solutions. However, for many years, NGOs have been barred from participating in these meetings, despite being key stakeholders in the issues under discussion.
This year, the UN has once again banned NGOs from attending the high-level meetings in person due to the ongoing pandemic. While this decision may seem understandable at first glance, it is important to note that this is not a new issue. Even before the pandemic, NGOs faced numerous barriers in accessing the UN, including high registration fees and strict accreditation procedures. As a result, the voices of the most marginalized and vulnerable communities are often left out of the conversation.
It is no secret that the UN has struggled with issues of transparency and inclusivity in the past. However, the exclusion of NGOs from high-level meetings is particularly concerning as it goes against the very principles on which the UN was founded. The UN Charter clearly states that “we the peoples” are the true source of the organization’s authority, yet the voices of these very peoples are being silenced.
NGOs play a crucial role in advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, providing on-the-ground support and expertise, and holding governments and the UN accountable. By shutting them out, the UN is missing out on valuable insights and perspectives that could lead to more effective and inclusive solutions. It also goes against the UN’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, which emphasize the importance of partnerships and participation of all stakeholders, including NGOs.
We understand that the UN may have valid reasons for limiting physical attendance at the high-level meetings this year. However, it is imperative that alternative means are put in place to ensure the participation of NGOs. Virtual platforms and online consultations have become the norm in the wake of the pandemic, and there is no reason why they cannot be utilized to allow for the meaningful engagement of NGOs in these crucial discussions.
We call on the UN to take urgent action and address this long-standing issue. It is time for the organization to live up to its promise of “We the Peoples” and open its doors to all stakeholders, especially those who are most affected by the decisions made within its walls. The UN must recognize the invaluable contributions of NGOs and create a space for their voices to be heard.
In conclusion, the recent IPS article has served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing paradox within the UN – an organization that claims to represent the peoples of the world but continues to exclude them. However, it is also a call to action for all of us to demand change and hold the UN accountable for its actions. We must continue to raise our voices and push for a UN that truly reflects the diversity and inclusivity it stands for. Only then can we truly achieve a better and more equitable world for all.
