Switzerland States Post-WWII World Order Under Severe Pressure

Geneva (ANTARA) - The President of the Swiss Confederation, Guy Parmelin, has warned that the international order following the Second World War is facing extremely heavy constraints.

In his speech at the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in New York, USA, on Tuesday night (22/9) local time, Parmelin also highlighted the increasing number of conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and the declining trust in multilateral institutions.

“Conflicts are increasing and becoming trapped in deadlocks. The most fundamental principles of the UN Charter, namely the prohibition of the use of force and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, are being flagrantly violated,” said Parmelin.

Speaking regarding artificial intelligence (AI), Parmelin stated that the technology offers various significant new possibilities in the fields of science, economy, medicine, and education.

“We must ensure that technological progress expands opportunities without widening the gap,” he added.

Parmelin added that every nation should be able to benefit from the advancements in AI as well as contribute to the formulation of rules governing its development and use.

Furthermore, he warned that regulations that hinder all forms of innovation would cause society to lose immense potential.

Parmelin emphasised the need to maintain a balance between encouraging progress and ensuring the development and use of new technologies are reliable and responsible.

Reiterating Swiss neutrality, Parmelin stated that it goes hand in hand with a steadfast commitment to the UN Charter and international law.

“Dialogue is a means to ease tensions when crises occur,” said Parmelin, promising that Switzerland will continue to offer its good offices and provide space for dialogue.

He also supported UN reform through the UN80 initiative, stating that the organisation must become more coherent, more effective, and more results-oriented.