In the final episode of Brookings’ Foresight Africa podcast series from the 80th U.N. General Assembly, host Landry Signé spoke with policymakers and experts about how the United Nations continues to uphold its founding mission of preserving peace and security. Guests highlighted the UN’s work with fragile and marginalized states, from least developed to landlocked and small island nations, and its ability to provide platforms for negotiation, peacekeeping, and development support. Voices like Abdoul Salam Bello stressed the UN’s enduring relevance for 193 member states, while Commonwealth Assistant Secretary General Luis Franceschi underlined the need to defend multilateralism against polarization. Media perspectives, represented by Yinka Adegoke, reminded listeners that the UN’s convening power also shapes global narratives, while Gyude Moore emphasized energy access as a priority where consensus can still be forged. The discussion made clear that while multilateralism is under stress, the UN’s role as a forum for dialogue and peace remains irreplaceable.
Germany’s foreign policy identity is inseparable from this framework: its ability to influence international debates depends on strong multilateral institutions. The podcast most importantly helps highlight not only the UN’s role in global peace but also why Germany continues to anchor its diplomacy in defending and reforming the multilateral order.
Listen to the full podcast on Brookings.