St. Kitts and Nevis Delivers CARICOM Address at the United Nations General Assembly Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the UN Charter

On June 26, 2025, St. Kitts and Nevis, on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), addressed the United Nations General Assembly during a high-level plenary meeting to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the signing of the UN Charter. Representing the regional bloc, the Honorable Konris Maynard, Minister of Foreign Affairs et al. of St. Kitts and Nevis, delivered a powerful address emphasizing the Charter’s enduring relevance while acknowledging contemporary global challenges that necessitate its revitalization. He underscored the fundamental principles enshrined in the Charter, highlighting the importance of multilateralism, peaceful conflict resolution, respect for sovereignty, and the promotion of human rights. Minister Maynard’s speech served as a call to action, urging member states to recommit to the principles of the Charter and work collaboratively to address pressing global issues.

Central to Minister Maynard’s address was the reaffirmation of CARICOM’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism and the rules-based international order enshrined in the UN Charter. He argued that the Charter remains the foundational document for global peace and security, providing a framework for international cooperation and dispute resolution. He stressed that the complex challenges facing the world, including climate change, pandemics, armed conflicts, and economic inequalities, necessitate a strengthened and revitalized multilateral system with the UN at its core. Furthermore, he emphasized the imperative for equitable representation and reform within the UN system, particularly the Security Council, to better reflect contemporary geopolitical realities and enhance its effectiveness in addressing global challenges.

Minister Maynard’s speech also highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) within the context of the UN Charter’s framework. He underscored the disproportionate impact of climate change on CARICOM member states, threatening their very existence and hindering sustainable development. He called for enhanced global cooperation to address climate change, advocating for increased financial and technological assistance for SIDS to adapt to and mitigate the effects of this existential threat. Additionally, he drew attention to the challenges posed by external economic shocks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing debt crisis, all of which exacerbate the vulnerabilities of SIDS and impede their progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Addressing the issue of peace and security, Minister Maynard reiterated CARICOM’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and adherence to international law. He condemned the use of force and advocated for dialogue and diplomacy as essential tools for resolving international disputes. He expressed concern over the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and called for strengthened global efforts towards disarmament and non-proliferation. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education and healthcare, emphasizing the crucial role of the UN in promoting sustainable development and fostering peaceful and inclusive societies.

A key theme in Minister Maynard’s address was the promotion and protection of human rights. He emphasized the universality and indivisibility of human rights and reaffirmed CARICOM’s commitment to upholding these fundamental principles. He called for an end to all forms of discrimination and human rights abuses, including racism, xenophobia, and intolerance. He further emphasized the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, advocating for their full and equal participation in all aspects of society. He also highlighted the vulnerability of migrants and refugees and called for international cooperation to protect their rights and ensure their safety and well-being.

In closing, Minister Maynard reiterated CARICOM’s unwavering support for the UN Charter and its principles, emphasizing the need for collective action to address the pressing challenges facing the international community. He called upon all member states to recommit to the spirit of multilateralism and work collaboratively towards achieving the shared goals of peace, security, development, and human rights. He stressed the importance of strengthening the UN system to better equip it to address the evolving global landscape and ensure that the promises of the Charter are fulfilled for present and future generations. His address served not only as a commemoration of a historical milestone but also as a renewed call to action, urging the international community to embrace the principles of the UN Charter and work together to build a more just, peaceful, and sustainable future for all.