Within human history, few figures symbolize the unwavering pursuit of justice and democracy more powerfully than . His journey was not undertaken alone; it was supported by the steadfast unity of a global community that upheld the inherent dignity of all people. This support was more than mere sympathy; it represented proactive, coordinated, and impactful multilateral efforts. The , amplified through the United Nations’ platforms, illustrated a fundamental principle: when nations unite with a shared moral objective, they possess the power to guide history towards justice.
Today, this same spirit of collective action is not a historical artifact but an urgent necessity for our collective future. The challenges confronting us—ranging from and pandemics to and —transcend national borders. No single nation, regardless of its power, can tackle them in isolation. Consequently, a renewed dedication to effective multilateralism, with a robust and responsive United Nations at its core, offers the only viable way forward. It serves as the indispensable framework through which we can collectively prioritize and advance democracy and justice globally.
Therefore, as the 80th U.N. General Assembly earlier this month, it is absolutely imperative that we do not abandon or undermine the progress made since the international organization’s inception following the world wars. A reformed multilateral system that genuinely considers Africa’s needs is crucial. The period ahead must focus on profound reform, rather than nationalism and nativism. This necessitates significantly stronger mechanisms for addressing , from Gaza to Sudan, Ukraine, and elsewhere, capable of acting more swiftly to alleviate human suffering and ensure justice.
Multilateralism establishes a platform for dialogue, provides tools for achieving consensus, and creates mechanisms for holding authority accountable. These are not abstract concepts but practical blueprints for constructing more just, democratic, and equitable societies. They serve as a common guide, directing diverse nations towards a shared aspiration of peace and prosperity.
We have already witnessed both the potential and limitations of this system. during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how quickly knowledge and resources can be mobilized, yet it also exposed significant disparities in access. Similarly, the failure to prevent atrocities in regions such as Sudan and Gaza underscores the pressing need for a system that operates with greater fairness and courage.
What many might not realize is that while we commonly refer to President Mandela by his first name, “Nelson,” his birth name was actually “Rolihlahla.” In isiXhosa, Mandela’s mother tongue and an official language of South Africa, the colloquial interpretation of Rolihlahla is “.” Mandela was indeed a troublemaker. He was the kind of beneficial troublemaker that is increasingly needed in the world today and will continue to be essential well into the future.
For what kind of world would he have been prepared to create constructive trouble? A world where justice is not subservient to the wealthy and powerful; where our collective betterment takes precedence over individual privilege; where society’s benefits and burdens are shared equitably; where our privilege and personal biases do not prevent us from being just; and where our personal preferences do not hinder us from acting rightly towards others.
The legacy of Nelson Mandela teaches us that justice is not a zero-sum game. The advancement of democracy and human rights in any region enhances stability and prosperity everywhere. Let us choose, once again, to pursue that path collectively.
