Small states need to join hands to uphold multilateral system in era of conflict: PM Wong

SINGAPORE – It is critical for small states to stand together and intensify efforts to reinforce the multilateral system, as well as defend the principles of international law, in an era of conflict and competition, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said on Sept 19.

In a recorded message delivered at the launch of a report by New York-based think-tank International Peace Institute (IPI) and Singapore’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), PM Wong said that a strong and effective multilateral system based on international law is not just beneficial for small states, but also an existential issue.

“Without a rules-based order that treats countries equally, the risks for small states increase exponentially. We face the danger of descending into a world where power dictates justice – a world governed by the law of the jungle, where might makes right,” he said.

“Such a scenario would undermine the very principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence, which are the lifelines for small states to safeguard our interests.”

Noting that the world is becoming a more dangerous place for small states, PM Wong said the major powers are vying for dominance and influence.

Amid this great power rivalry, a rise in protectionism and unilateral tendencies can be observed, he noted.

If these trends continue, they will create a more precarious environment for small states, he said.

“We will be under growing pressure to take sides; we will become more vulnerable to economic coercion, political interference and even security threats.

“That is why it’s critical for small states to stand together – to intensify our efforts to reinforce the multilateral system and to defend the principles of international law,” he said.

PM Wong said small states are not without agency, nor are they passive bystanders. What they lack in size can be made up for in agility, resourcefulness and cooperation.

He averred that by working together, small states can make their collective voices heard and amplify their influence.

This will enable them to help shape the development of global rules and norms on key issues like climate change and artificial intelligence, and ensure that small states’ interests are safeguarded, he added.

PM Wong said it is with this spirit that Singapore embarked upon the project to put together the IPI-RSIS report, titled Small States And The Future Of Multilateralism, which captures the priorities and challenges for the UN and the multilateral system, as viewed through the lens of small states.

The report, launched in conjunction with the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly High-Level Week, examines how small states can increase their autonomy and agency in an ever-changing global landscape.

One of the events during the high-level week is a much-touted Summit of the Future on Sept 22 and 23, where the highlight will be the anticipated adoption of an inter-governmentally negotiated and action-oriented Pact for the Future.

The areas covered in the pact are sustainable development and financing for development; international peace and security; science, technology and innovation and digital cooperation; youth and future generations; and transforming global governance.

The report explores the issue of how small states can contribute to implementing the pact and build a stronger multilateral system for the benefit of all.

Among its recommendations are for small states to reinforce the fundamental principles of international cooperation by calling out violations of the UN Charter, and to expand and strengthen diverse cross-regional coalitions for global governance by building consensus and widening the group of countries invested in overcoming polarisation as a global priority.

Other recommendations include promoting information sharing and capacity building; revamping working methods at the UN; updating the global body’s toolbox for ensuring global peace and security; and prioritising inclusiveness on new and emerging technologies.

In addition, they are urged to embed future thinking by injecting their views into the gamut of “forward-looking” and “long-term” conversations taking place through various processes at the UN.

“While there will be moments when small states make meaningful progress, there will also be times when they experience setbacks and disappointments. But there is no room for giving up,” the report’s conclusion read.

“We must not regress to the world where ‘might makes right’; we must endure and push forward. With unwavering dedication, small states can ensure that this transformation is representative, responsive and effective in achieving the common interest of a brighter future for all humanity,” the report said.

PM Wong said the report is a call to action for stronger partnerships not only among small states, but also with all UN members.

“In the end, all nations, big and small, seek the same fundamental goal: to create better opportunities and improve the well-being of our citizens,” he said. “By working together, we can address global challenges more effectively. We can ensure that no country is left behind, and enable a global system that upholds the rights and interests of all countries, regardless of size.”

The Prime Minister concluded his message by stating that Singapore has long been a staunch advocate of multilateralism, committed to upholding international law and to strengthening a rules-based order.

“You can count on Singapore’s unwavering steadfast support as we collectively pursue this important endeavour,” he said.