ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Minister for Climate Change, Musadik Malik, has warned of a fragmenting global order and the erosion of multilateralism, stressing the need for universal application of justice and rights.
The climate change minister made these remarks while addressing world leaders at the 11th United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC) Global Forum in Riyadh.
The forum, held under the theme “UNAOC: Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity”, marked the 20th anniversary of the UNAOC and brought together global leaders, policymakers, and representatives from civil society.
In his address, Malik reflected on the shifting dynamics of the global order, noting that while the world once envisioned itself as a single global village, contemporary realities point towards increasing fragmentation.
He highlighted challenges such as the weakening of multilateralism, the rise of conflicts and war-torn regions, escalating trade and tariff disputes, and declining global funding for environmental and development priorities.
The minister cautioned that bilateralism is increasingly being replaced by unilateral actions, with serious implications for global peace and justice.
Emphasising the importance of human rights, Malik stated: “I am firmly committed to women’s rights, minority rights, environmental rights, and children’s rights,” describing them as fundamental and non-negotiable.
He raised concerns about the selective application of these principles, citing the critical situations in Palestine and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
He urged that the rights of Palestinians and Kashmiris must be recognised and upheld in line with international norms.
Malik also drew attention to water rights, underscoring the responsibilities of upper riparian states towards lower riparian countries.
He stressed that the equitable and just sharing of water resources is vital for regional stability, sustainable development, and human security.
Concluding his remarks, the minister noted that the 20th anniversary of the UNAOC serves as a timely reminder of the need to recommit to dialogue, peace, harmony, and mutual respect among nations.
