A Misrepresentative, who Speaks for Himself Not the Nation

By: Muhammad Dawood Ishaqzahi (Yousfi)

The United Nations (UN) is an internationally recognized legal and political organization that serves as a powerful authority overseeing the functions of governments. However, it is evident that the political aspects of the UN have often overshadowed its legal aspects, diminishing its independence and weakening its ability to fulfill its intended role in the global arena.

Powerful countries’ interventions have contributed to this loss of independence and have influenced the organization’s decisions, which at times prioritize political considerations over legal principles. Human rights violations, women’s rights, prisoners’ rights, and freedom are among the concepts that are sometimes exploited for political purposes.

Following the devastation caused by the Second World War, efforts were made to prevent a future disaster. The United Nations Charter was ratified by 51 countries at the conference held in San Francisco in 1945. The UN officially commenced its work on October 24, 1945, with the approval of the permanent member states of the Security Council and the majority of signatory countries.

The organization was established based on six principles, goals, and pillars: General Assembly, a Security Council, an Economic and Social Council, a Trusteeship Council, an International Court of Justice and a Secretariat. Its aim was to promote international cooperation in political, economic, security, and social realms, as well as to facilitate peaceful resolutions to international disputes.

The General Assembly, with its core responsibilities, undertakes several duties and exercises its powers, including

1. Examining, consulting, and recommending actions,
2. supervising other elements of the organization,
3. Determining budgets and financial matters,
4. Conducting elections,
5. Making amendments to the charter

Afghanistan, like many other nations, became a member of the UN in 1946. However, since the advent of the Islamic Emirate, the United Nations Credentials Verification Committee has deferred its decision on transferring the seat of Afghanistan to the government for the third time. This delay poses further challenges as it hinders the voices of the people from conveying their issues. It reflects a troubling pattern where the organization’s decisions have deviated from the right path, neglecting Afghanistan’s government and nation. Handing over the seat to individuals who lack awareness of the government’s challenges and the nation’s sufferings signifies the international community’s disregard for Afghanistan.

It is inconceivable for someone unrelated to the government or the nation to claim representation of the people of Afghanistan. This person represents only themselves, rather than the nation as a whole. It is unprecedented for a government and its people to have representatives chosen by others. In the past two years, those self-proclaimed representatives have done little to benefit the nation, except impede progress by making baseless speeches in the Security Council and other forums.

If the international community genuinely seeks to address Afghanistan’s problems, transparent and honest engagement with the government and people of Afghanistan is crucial. Dual policies and self-interests of world powers have contributed to a significant portion of Afghanistan’s economic problems and poverty. Afghanistan’s presence in the United Nations helps dispel misunderstandings and fosters mutual trust.

Therefore, attending the UN General Assembly meeting holds great importance for the country. It enables direct communication with world leaders, proposing agreements aligned with national interests, improving the country’s standing and influence in global decision-making, and bringing attention to security, economic, and social issues that require international community’s focus.

Considering the country’s circumstances, the people of Afghanistan expect the ratification committee to approve and accept their genuine representatives in the United Nations without any interference or political influence. The current government of Afghanistan, recognized by the people and meeting international standards, is a legitimate government deserving representation in the UN.