Portuguese FM Blasts UN Over BRICS Attendance

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Post on Nov 09, 2024

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Portuguese FM Blasts UN Over BRICS Attendance: A Diplomatic Row Erupts

The recent BRICS summit has sparked a diplomatic row, with Portuguese Foreign Minister João Gomes Cravinho launching a scathing attack on the United Nations over its handling of the event. The criticism stems from the UN's decision to invite non-member states, including BRICS members, to participate in the summit. This move, according to Cravinho, undermines the UN's authority and sets a dangerous precedent for future international gatherings.

A Question of Protocol: Portugal's Concerns

Cravinho's sharp critique centers on the UN's invitation of non-member states to participate in the BRICS summit, which was held in South Africa in August 2023. He argues that this decision disregards the established protocols of the UN and erodes its legitimacy. The Portuguese FM believes that such practices create an uneven playing field, allowing non-member states to exert undue influence within the UN framework.

Specifically, Cravinho expressed concern over the inclusion of Iran in the summit, citing the country's human rights violations and nuclear ambitions as key concerns. He contends that inviting such a state to the summit sends the wrong message to the international community and undermines the UN's commitment to upholding human rights and promoting global stability.

A Call for a Return to Established Norms

The Portuguese FM's statement has sparked a wider debate about the UN's role in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Some argue that the UN must adapt to the changing geopolitical realities and engage with emerging powers like BRICS. They maintain that excluding influential states from important summits would be counterproductive and hinder global cooperation.

However, Cravinho's stance underscores the importance of upholding established norms and protocols within the UN system. He emphasizes the need to protect the integrity of the organization and ensure that its decisions reflect the collective will of its member states. His call for a return to established norms highlights the need for careful consideration of the potential ramifications of inviting non-member states to UN events.

The BRICS Summit: A Contested Platform

The BRICS summit itself has attracted significant attention, particularly with the growing influence of its members. The expansion of the bloc to include countries like Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates further underscores its burgeoning power and potential impact on global affairs.

The inclusion of Iran in the summit, as well as other controversial states like Saudi Arabia, has raised concerns about the potential for these countries to wield undue influence within the BRICS framework. This issue is likely to continue to fuel debates about the future of the UN and its role in a world increasingly shaped by emerging powers.

Looking Ahead: Balancing Power and Legitimacy

The Portuguese FM's statement raises crucial questions about the balance between engaging with emerging powers and safeguarding the legitimacy of the UN system. As the international landscape continues to evolve, the UN faces the challenge of adapting to new realities while upholding its core principles. The debate surrounding the BRICS summit serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and tensions involved in navigating a world of shifting alliances and competing interests.

This ongoing discussion will likely shape future UN decisions and determine how the organization responds to the rise of new global powers like BRICS.