Uganda’s ongoing Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Munyonyo, Kampala, has underscored the global community’s confidence in the leadership of the host nation.

Vice President Jessica Alupo, in her address to delegates, emphasized Uganda’s unwavering commitment to non-alignment as a constitutional cornerstone and a pivotal element of the country’s foreign policy since joining NAM in 1964, just two years after gaining independence.

Despite the current complex global landscape, Alupo acknowledged the multitude of existing, new, and emerging issues hindering the progress of NAM member states in realizing their shared aspirations. The summit, which is expected to conclude with the adoption of a declaration, aims to articulate NAM’s collective position on pressing global matters and outline its vision for a more just and equitable world.

Navigating turbulent times

Acknowledging the geopolitical tensions prevailing in the world, Alupo expressed optimism in NAM’s potential to navigate these turbulent times. She highlighted the significance of the Movement’s founding principles, emphasizing respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, recognition of racial and national equality, and the commitment to non-intervention in the internal affairs of other countries.

Coalescing positions for greater international influence

The NAM Ministerial Meeting, a part of the 19th Summit of the NAM, witnessed member states converging to ensure the organization’s greater say in international affairs.

Vice President Alupo stressed the importance of unity among NAM countries, urging them to adhere to the founding principles of the Movement.

Addressing ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and Russia, Israel and Palestine, Alupo expressed concern about the challenges these conflicts pose to NAM’s core principles. The meeting highlighted the loss of human lives, destruction of property, and the humanitarian crises resulting from internal displacement and the creation of refugees.

Promoting multilateralism and addressing global challenges

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the deputy prime minister and minister of Foreign Affairs of Namibia, echoed the sentiment of pursuing multilateralism over unilateralism in the governance of global affairs.

She urged developed nations to refrain from taking unilateral decisions, such as imposing sanctions and suspending nations from multilateral institutions.

Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the importance of consistent application of the UN Charter, recognizing sovereignty, equality of member states, and respect for territorial integrity. She underscored the significance of the outcomes of the NAM meeting for advancing the Movement’s position at the upcoming UN summit scheduled for September.

Relevance of NAM in the modern world

In conclusion, the ongoing NAM Summit not only serves as a platform for addressing pressing global issues but also reaffirms the relevance of the Non-Aligned Movement in the modern world.

The collaborative efforts of member states, as demonstrated during the summit, reflect a commitment to maximizing cooperation to address the main challenges facing nations globally.

As delegates continue their deliberations, the world watches with anticipation to witness the outcomes and declarations that will shape NAM’s stance on critical global issues, setting the stage for the Movement’s role in the international arena.