Reforming the United Nations without shrinking civic space

At a time of financial strain and growing political polarisation, changes to the UN system must not come at the expense of civil society participation.

In the article, João Rebelo underscores that civil society is not a peripheral actor but a central pillar of effective multilateralism. Drawing on the example of the Universal Periodic Review, he highlights how structured participation by NGOs strengthens accountability, inclusiveness, and the quality of international debates. Restricting this space would weaken the legitimacy and credibility of the United Nations precisely when public trust in global institutions needs to be rebuilt.

Read the full article in the Tribune de Genève (only available in French).