Learn

Multilateralism is a term that is often heard in the context of international relationships, especially nowadays. For example, it is said that multilateralism is under attack. But do we really understand what that means?
‍
Traditionally, multilateralism refers to coordinated collective action between at least three actors. This concept involves the sharing, by the actors concerned, of the idea that it is in their interest to work together, in order to solve problems that their individual efforts would not solve. Multilateralism helps nations overcome complex international crises by adopting a universal approach. In short, it is a political tool, a state of mind and a method of action. The motto of multilateralism would be: “together we are stronger.”
‍
Multilateralism is essential for establishing and maintaining peace, improving the quality of our lives, and defending human rights. It is also essential in the management of complex international problems, or health crises. When several countries face the same problem together, they inevitably get better results.

WE, THE PEOPLES OF THE UNITED NATIONS, RESOLVED

to save future generations from the scourge of war, which twice in the space of a human life has inflicted untold suffering on mankind,
to reaffirm our faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women, as well as of nations, big and small,
to create the conditions necessary for the maintenance of justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law,
to promote social progress and to create better living conditions in greater freedom,
‍
AND FOR THESE PURPOSES
‍
to practice tolerance, to live in peace with each other in a spirit of good neighborhood,
to join forces to maintain international peace and security,
to accept principles and to establish methods to ensure that force of arms will not be used except in the common interest,
to use international institutions to promote the economic and social progress of all peoples,

 
WE DECIDED TO COMBINE OUR EFFORTS TO ACHIEVE THESE GOALS
‍
Consequently, our respective Governments, through their representatives, meeting in the city of San Francisco, and endowed with full powers recognized in due form, have adopted the present Charter of the United Nations and hereby establish an international organization to be called the United Nations.

Welcome to UN Geneva! For more than 80 years, the UN has established itself as a center of multilateral diplomacy, working for peace, rights and prosperity or sustainable development. Learn more about what UN Geneva, its secretariat entities, and partner funds, programs and specialized agencies based in Geneva are doing to improve the lives of many people around the world.

Genevemonde.ch proposes a new way of telling the story of international Geneva by bringing together history, memory and testimonies.

UN News is the official United Nations news portal. It provides information on UN activities, including in the areas of peace and security, sustainable development, human rights, and humanitarian action.

Discover the museums, guided tours and exhibitions of international Geneva.

Geneva Policies Outlook is an initiative of the Graduate Institute that offers prospective analyses, based on experience and expertise, concerning future strategic and operational trends, relevant to professionals working on global affairs in Geneva.