AASGON and GSEF Call for Woman UN Secretary-General, Fairer Global Governance

GG News Bureau
Kent, UK, 31st Oct: The Africa Asia Scholars Global Network (AASGON) and the Global South Economic Forum (GSEF) have called for more inclusive leadership at the United Nations, urging that the next UN Secretary-General be a woman. The two organisations have also stressed that African women must not be left behind in the race for the top UN leadership position, while calling for a fairer balance between the Global South and Global North in global decision-making.

In a joint press release issued from Kent, United Kingdom, on October 30, AASGON and GSEF outlined their vision for a more inclusive and equitable global governance system. Their appeal focuses on six key areas: appointing a woman as the next UN Secretary-General, ensuring African women’s representation, achieving a fairer Global South–Global North balance, renewing multilateralism, promoting constructive engagement through The Honest Global South, and advancing inclusive development through the Global South Inclusive Development Fund (GS-IDF).

Call for a Woman UN Secretary-General
AASGON and GSEF have called for the next UN Secretary-General to be a woman, arguing that inclusive leadership is essential to building a more legitimate, effective and representative United Nations.

The organisations said leadership at the highest level of the UN should reflect the importance of gender representation and inclusivity in global institutions.

They also emphasised that African women must not be excluded from consideration for the top UN leadership position. The organisations underlined the need for genuine gender and geographical representation in the selection process.

Demand for a Fairer Global South–Global North Balance
The two organisations have called for a more equitable balance between the Global South and Global North in global decision-making.

According to the press release, international governance structures must reflect contemporary realities and the aspirations of a more just international order. AASGON and GSEF said the perspectives and priorities of countries in the Global South should receive greater consideration in shaping decisions that affect the international community.

Renewed Multilateralism for Global Challenges
AASGON and GSEF have also called for renewed multilateralism to address today’s global challenges.

They advocated a United Nations that is fit for purpose, more inclusive and better equipped to deliver on peace, sustainable development and shared prosperity.

The organisations said strengthening multilateral cooperation is essential to creating a more equitable world and ensuring that international institutions can respond effectively to the needs and aspirations of people across regions.

The Honest Global South: A Framework for Constructive Engagement
As part of their proposed approach to future global governance, AASGON and GSEF have introduced The Honest Global South as a reference point for engagement.

The initiative is intended to encourage frank and constructive discussions on the priorities and perspectives of the Global South. The organisations said it would provide a platform for engaging with issues relevant to the region’s role in shaping global governance.

The proposal highlights the importance of ensuring that the voices and concerns of the Global South are heard in international discussions and decision-making processes.

Global South Inclusive Development Fund (GS-IDF)
The two organisations have also presented the Global South Inclusive Development Fund (GS-IDF) as a practical initiative to support inclusive and sustainable development.

The fund is intended to help translate commitments into tangible progress for people and communities. AASGON and GSEF described it as an initiative aimed at supporting development that is inclusive, sustainable and responsive to the needs of communities.

The proposal forms part of their broader call for stronger partnerships and a more equitable global order.

About AASGON
The Africa Asia Scholars Global Network (AASGON) was established on October 10, 2010, and is a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC).

It is an international network committed to advancing education, scholarships, research, innovation, cultural exchange and sustainable development through cooperation among Africa, Asia and the wider Global South.

About GSEF
The Global South Economic Forum (GSEF) is a platform for dialogue, partnership and practical initiatives aimed at advancing inclusive and sustainable development.

The forum works to amplify Global South perspectives and promote a more equitable global economic order.

The joint statement carries the message: “Inclusive People. Stronger Institutions. A Fairer Tomorrow.” It also calls for a sustainable tomorrow through stronger partnerships and a more inclusive United Nations.

The press release lists aasgon@live.co.uk for media enquiries and provides the institutional websites www.aasgon.org and www.g-sef.org.