Belgian prime minister calls for resistance against human rights decline in UN address

Belgian prime minister Alexander De Croo delivered a powerful speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Sunday, urging global resistance against the deterioration of human rights and the rise of populism. De Croo also criticised the prioritisation of private interests over the common good, calling for a recommitment to shared values.

The outgoing prime minister took the stage during the ‘Summit of the Future,’ where a new ‘Future Agenda’ had been adopted earlier in the day. This agenda aims to breathe new life into multilateralism. 

“We are unfortunately witnessing a global backslide in human rights, as leaders increasingly prioritise certain ‘interests’ over core ‘values,’” De Croo said. He pointed to conservative and populist movements targeting the rights of women and girls, warning that efforts to undermine human rights have been ongoing for years. “It is crucial to resist this decline,” he urged.

Defending human rights and free speech

De Croo emphasised the importance of protecting human rights defenders and guaranteeing freedom of expression, while holding political leaders accountable for their actions. He called for a renewed commitment to an international rules-based order, underpinned by respect for international law and the promotion of human rights. “The Future Agenda reaffirms our commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” he said.

The prime minister also called for reform in global governance, particularly in creating an international financial system that works for everyone, especially the most vulnerable. He reminded the assembly that Belgium has long been a leading voice for greater efficiency within multilateral institutions and development banks.

Michel calls for financial reform

Earlier, former Belgian prime minister and current president of the European Council Charles Michel also addressed the need for greater international cooperation and an urgent overhaul of the global financial system. Michel stressed that developing countries need immediate access to both public and private financing and that the issue of debt must be addressed.

“We cannot accept that low- and middle-income countries are forced to choose between fighting poverty and addressing climate change. They must be able to tackle both, and we must support them,” Michel argued.

^{Belgian PM Alexander De Croo © BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE}