Season 3, Episode 11: Dr. Alfred de Zayas, Building a Just World Order
Sep 3, 2024
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Dr. Alfred de Zayas, a leading authority on international law and former UN Independent Expert, discusses his book, 'Building a Just World Order.' He emphasizes the need for democratic reforms in global governance and critiques current UN practices. The conversation spans topics like the impact of World Bank policies, the need for reliable information, and accountability on issues like ecocide and torture. Dr. Zayas passionately argues for ethical politics and the urgency of a just international system, underscoring the interconnectedness of human rights and sustainable development.
Dr. Alfred de Zayas emphasizes the necessity of democratic reform within the UN to promote human rights and equitable global governance.
The podcast highlights the role of self-determination as a vital conflict prevention strategy crucial for establishing global peace and stability.
Deep dives
The Role of the Human Rights Council
The Human Rights Council serves as a key governmental body within the United Nations, tasked with overseeing human rights practices globally. An independent expert, such as Alfred Desaias, is appointed to assess and promote a democratic and equitable international order. This process involves engaging in discussions about fundamental rights, such as the right to self-determination and truth, which are crucial for establishing a just world. Desaias highlights the historical context and evolution of the Human Rights Council, emphasizing its importance in the broader framework of international law and governance.
Principles for a Just International Order
Alfred Desaias outlines foundational principles necessary for creating a just international order, centering on the United Nations Charter. Key among these is the idea that peace is paramount and serves as the foundation for development and human rights. He stresses the importance of self-determination as a conflict prevention strategy, arguing that unresolved grievances can escalate into violence. These principles are not merely theoretical; they are integral to the fabric of international law and governance, and adherence to them is essential for maintaining global stability.
Obstacles to Implementing International Law
Significant obstacles hinder the effective enforcement of international law, with the United States and its allies often leading a rebellion against established norms. Desaias notes that economic interests, such as the war industry, play a crucial role in perpetuating conflicts rather than resolving them through negotiation. A manipulation of information also exists, where misinformation clouds public perception, fostering support for wars that the general populace might otherwise oppose. This air of impunity makes it increasingly difficult to uphold the principles of the United Nations and maintain trust in its institutions.
Moving Toward a Cooperative Global Future
To restore faith in international institutions, Desaias proposes the establishment of an advisory Parliamentary Assembly within the United Nations to represent the voices of the global population effectively. This assembly would prioritize the need for dialogue and negotiation to ameliorate conflicts rather than exacerbate them through unilateral actions. He further illustrates the necessity for a commitment to enforce existing legal frameworks and to develop enhanced mechanisms for accountability. Such reforms are crucial for fostering a cooperative global environment and ensuring that powerful nations adhere to the rules that govern international relations.
Join Professor Jeffrey Sachs and Dr. Alfred de Zayas as they discuss de Zayas’s book, Building a Just World Order which delves into the possibility of a democratic and equitable international order, essential for sustainable development and the welfare of future generations
Together, they explore the work of Dr. Alfred de Zayas, the first Independent Expert on a Democratic and Equitable International Order appointed by the UN. They discuss his 14 reports outlining 25 principles for a just global system, including reforms to the UN, human rights protections, and economic justice. Dr. Zayas addresses issues like UN Security Council reforms, the impact of World Bank and IMF policies, and critiques unilateral sanctions. He also advocates for the right to reliable information and accountability on indigenous rights, ecocide, and torture. Tune in for insights on these vital recommendations and the call for ethical politics and human rights
The Book Club with Jeffrey Sachs is brought to you by the SDG Academy, the flagship education initiative of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. Learn more and get involved at bookclubwithjeffreysachs.org.