PML-N leader calls for UN restructuring

Retired Lt Gen Abdul Qayyum, a former senator and PML-N leader, has called for restructuring the United Nations. In a ceremony marking the 14th death anniversary of its co-founder Sun Myung Moon, Gen Qayyum argued that veto powers and limited representation in the Security Council hinder the UN's impartiality. He praised the UN's contributions to peacekeeping, health, education, climate change and refugee issues, but stressed that its effectiveness hinges on member states adhering to its Charter and implementing its resolutions.

Gen Qayyum cited ongoing wars, undeclared nuclear weapons, political oppression and human rights abuses across the globe, including in Palestine and Kashmir. He attributed these issues to power rivalries, territorial disputes, poverty, inequality, nationalism, racism, religious extremism and disregard for international law. The former Pakistan Ex-Servicemen Society president advocated for "geopolitical realism, global power equilibrium and pragmatic diplomacy," urging states to rely on international law rather than superpower might for security guarantees.

Gen Qayyum urged nations to minimize kinetic power, citing NATO's struggles in Afghanistan and the US's unsuccessful regime-change operations in Iran. He noted that nations can endure economic hardships to protect their autonomy. Paying tribute to Moon, Gen Qayyum urged followers of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) to "practically implement his vision" by upholding international law, respecting differences, showing tolerance, promoting dialogue, reducing poverty, advancing education, protecting human rights and encouraging disarmament.

These objectives, Gen Qayyum argued, are the same as those outlined by Moon and other leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr and Mother Teresa. He emphasized that adhering to these principles is crucial for the UN's success and the promotion of a more equitable, peaceful world.