Swiss president warns post-World War II international order under 'severe constraints'

The Swiss president warned Tuesday that the post-World War II international order is under "severe constraints," pointing to multiplying conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and an erosion of trust in multilateral institutions.

Addressing the UN General Assembly in New York late Tuesday, Guy Parmelin said: "Conflicts are multiplying and becoming deadlocked. The most fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter – the prohibition of the use of force, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity – are being openly violated."

Turning to artificial intelligence, Parmelin said it offers considerable new possibilities in science, the economy, medicine, and education, but also risks creating "a new divide" between those with the skills and infrastructure to participate in the transformation and those who only experience its effects.

"We must ensure that technological progress broadens opportunities without widening the gaps," he said, adding that countries should be able to benefit from AI advances and contribute to rules governing its development and use.

At the same time, Parmelin warned that rules preventing all innovation would deprive societies of "enormous potential," saying the responsibility is to strike a balance between enabling progress and ensuring the reliable and responsible development and use of new technologies.

The erosion of trust is affecting the global economy, he warned, with protectionism growing, supply chains being reorganized or fragmented by geopolitical tensions, and the multilateral trading system weakening.

Reaffirming Switzerland's neutrality, he said it goes "hand in hand with a steadfast commitment" to the UN Charter and international law.

"Dialogue is a tool for de-escalation when crises erupt," Parmelin said, pledging that Switzerland would continue offering its good offices and spaces for dialogue.

He also backed reform of the UN under the UN80 initiative, saying the organization should become "more coherent, more effective, and more results-oriented."