This book considers the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international diplomacy, and the challenges and opportunities it presents for the future of multilateralism.
Global cooperation and solidarity are central to responding to and mitigating the health and socio-economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, yet, to many, this was slow to mobilize and lacking in political leadership. This book takes a practical look at the lessons learned from the period spanning the World Health Organization’s first declaration of a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020, to the commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations in October 2020. This timespan covers a critical period in which to consider key areas of diplomacy, covering a range of tools of global cooperation: multilateral diplomacy, the rule of law, sustainable development, economics and financing, digital governance, and peace and security. Each chapter in this book introduces readers to the current situation in their respective areas, followed by a constructive consideration of lessons learned from the pandemic’s impact on that field, and key recommendations for the future. The practical focus and future orientation is particularly important as the book injects pragmatism and guidance that will facilitate ‘building back better’ in COVID response plans, while creating space for continued focus on global commitments around sustainable development and the future of the UN.
Written by a team of authors who have worked directly in International Public Policy and the establishment of global agendas at the United Nations, this book will be essential reading for professionals and policymakers involved in diplomatic roles, as well as students and scholars interested in the future of international relations, global governance and sustainable development.
Hana Alhashimi is an Emirati member of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Internet Governance Forum Multistakeholder Advisory Group, and a former Senior Advisor in the Office of the President of the General Assembly.
Andres Fiallo is an Ecuadorian diplomat who has contributed to central processes within the United Nations as a negotiator, coordinator and senior advisor on international law, human rights, social affairs, peace and security.
Toni-Shae Freckleton is a Senior Adviser in the Office of the President of the United Nations General Assembly, and Director of the Population and Health Unit Planning Institute of Jamaica.
Mona Ali Khalil is the Director of MAK LAW, an Affiliate of the Harvard Law School Program on International Law and Armed Conflict, and a former Senior Legal Officer of the United Nations.
Vahd Mulachela is an Indonesian Diplomat who served as Senior Adviser on Partnerships to the 73rd and 74th Presidents of the General Assembly.
Jonathan Viera is an Ecuadorian diplomat who has served as negotiator in the key economics and sustainable development processes of the United Nations. He has taught at universities in Ecuador and the United States.
