China's permanent representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, delivered a forceful critique of unilateral coercive measures during a UN General Assembly debate on Monday, framing them as a threat to multilateralism and global development. The remarks came as the assembly adopted a resolution declaring December 4 as the International Day Against Unilateral Coercive Measures.
Multilateralism Under Threat
Fu argued that unilateral sanctions imposed by individual nations 'trample on the principle of sovereign equality' by prioritizing domestic laws over international agreements. 'They replace dialogue with coercion and power politics, undermining the Security Council's collective decision-making authority,' he stated, warning of systemic humanitarian consequences.
Development Goals at Risk
The envoy highlighted how financial embargoes and trade restrictions disrupt global supply chains and widen economic divides: 'These measures have turned developing nations with great potential into casualties of an artificial development crisis.' He specifically linked unilateral actions to setbacks in achieving the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Human Rights Paradox
While acknowledging human rights as a stated justification for sanctions, Fu condemned their real-world impact: 'The right to life, health, and development is being violated daily in targeted nations through collective punishment disguised as policy.' He accused some Western countries of 'weaponizing economic measures' to enforce a 'law of the jungle' mentality.
A Call for Collective Action
Fu urged immediate lifting of all unilateral sanctions and called for strengthened international cooperation. 'As both a Global South leader and a historical victim of such measures, China will work with all parties to build a more equitable global governance system,' he concluded, positioning Beijing as a champion of reformed multilateralism.
