By Yanga Malotana, programme manager at ESI (Emerging Scholars Initiative) Press, University of Pretoria

Observed annually on 24 April, the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace represents a global commitment to the principles of international cooperation, peaceful conflict resolution and collective action in addressing global challenges. This commemoration holds particular significance for South Africa, as multilateralism has been a cornerstone of its foreign policy approach since the country’s transition to democracy in 1994.

South Africa’s embrace of multilateralism emerged from its own experience of international solidarity during the anti-apartheid struggle. Following its democratic transition, the country has consistently championed a rules-based international order, advocating for reform of global governance structures to better reflect the needs and aspirations of developing nations. This commitment is enshrined in South Africa’s Constitution and foreign policy framework, which prioritises Africa’s development, South-South cooperation and strengthening multilateral institutions.

South Africa’s multilateral engagement manifests through active participation in organisations such as the United Nations, African Union, BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), the G20 and the Non-Aligned Movement. This approach reflects not only pragmatic diplomatic considerations, but also embodies the ubuntu philosophy – the recognition of our interconnectedness and shared humanity – which has guided South Africa’s international relations.

The status of multilateralism globally

The contemporary landscape of multilateralism presents a complex picture of both challenges and resilience. Traditional multilateral institutions face unprecedented pressures from multiple directions.

Rising geopolitical tensions, particularly between major powers like the US, China and Russia, have strained the collaborative spirit that is essential for effective multilateralism. The return to great power competition has fragmented international responses to critical issues, from climate change to nuclear non-proliferation.

The proliferation of protectionist economic policies and nationalist political movements in various regions has undermined support for international cooperation. This trend has manifested in high-profile withdrawals from international agreements and institutions, questioning the very foundations of the post-World War 2 international order.

Multilateral institutions themselves face criticism regarding their representativeness, effectiveness and legitimacy. The UN Security Council structure, established in 1945, appears increasingly anachronistic in reflecting current global power distributions. Similarly, international financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank continue to operate with governance structures that many developing nations, including South Africa, view as inequitable.

However, amid these challenges, multilateralism has demonstrated remarkable adaptability. New configurations of multilateral cooperation have emerged, including regional organisations, issue-specific coalitions and informal groupings like BRICS, which complement traditional structures. The COVID-19 pandemic, while exposing weaknesses in international coordination, ultimately reinforced the necessity of collaborative approaches to global challenges that transcend national borders.

Noteworthy diplomatic achievements

Despite the headwinds facing multilateralism, significant diplomatic achievements demonstrate its continued relevance and effectiveness.

The Paris Climate Agreement represents a landmark achievement in global climate diplomacy. Despite setbacks, it has established a framework for coordinated international action on climate change. South Africa’s role in bridging North-South divides during these negotiations showcased its commitment to constructive multilateralism.

The Iran nuclear deal demonstrated how persistent diplomacy could address complex security issues through multilateral engagement. While controversy surrounds its implementation, the agreement itself represented a triumph of diplomatic problem-solving over military confrontation.

The establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) marks one of the most ambitious multilateral projects in recent history. As the world’s largest free trade area, AfCFTA exemplifies how regional multilateralism can advance economic integration and development. South Africa’s support for this initiative aligns with its commitment to African unity and prosperity.

Despite initial coordination failures, the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic eventually produced collaborative mechanisms like COVAX to facilitate vaccine distribution. Though imperfect, these efforts demonstrated how multilateral approaches can address humanitarian crises when political will exists.

While facing several challenges, peacekeeping operations in regions like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan and Mali have helped contain conflicts and create space for political solutions. South Africa’s contributions to these missions reflect its commitment to peace and stability through multilateral engagement.

Enhancing international cooperation frameworks

To strengthen multilateralism for future challenges, several reforms deserve consideration.

Democratising global governance institutions: The composition of the UN Security Council and voting structures of international financial institutions should be reformed to better reflect contemporary global realities. As part of the African Union consensus, South Africa has advocated for permanent African representation on the council to address historical imbalances.

Strengthening regional organisations: Regional bodies like the African Union, ASEAN and MERCOSUR should be empowered to address challenges at regional level while coordinating with global institutions. This “subsidiarity principle” can enhance the legitimacy and effectiveness of multilateral action.

Inclusive multilateralism: Multilateral frameworks should incorporate civil society organisations, academic institutions and private sector entities. This multi-stakeholder approach can enhance legitimacy, generate innovative solutions and mobilise broader support for multilateral initiatives.

Results-oriented approaches: Multilateral institutions must demonstrate concrete achievements to maintain public support. This requires moving beyond declaratory statements to implementing practical solutions with measurable outcomes. South Africa’s BRICS chairmanship has emphasised this pragmatic dimension of multilateralism.

Digital governance frameworks: As technological challenges demand coordinated responses, new multilateral frameworks for digital governance, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence regulation are urgently needed. South Africa’s advocacy for bridging the digital divide is an important contribution to this emerging area of multilateral cooperation.

As we commemorate the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, we must recognise both the achievements and limitations of our current international system. South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism reflects practical recognition that our interconnected challenges – from climate change and terrorism to pandemics and economic inequality – cannot be addressed through unilateral action.

The path forward requires reimagining and reinvigorating multilateralism. This demands political will and creative diplomacy – qualities that South Africa has demonstrated throughout its democratic era. By building more inclusive, effective and adaptive multilateral institutions, the international community can better address both current crises and emerging challenges.

On this international day, we reaffirm that multilateralism is an essential approach to securing peace, prosperity and sustainable development. As Archbishop Desmond Tutu observed: “My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” This ubuntu philosophy offers a profound rationale for strengthening multilateralism as we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape.