The Rules-Based International Order: Rhetoric or Reality?

Like many countries, 'New Zealand believes in a rules-based international system and the UN is at the core of this' (MFAT).

However, as UN Secretary-General António Guterres recently stated at the World Economic Forum in Davos, 'geopolitical divides are preventing us from working together around global solutions for global challenges.' This is evident in the current situations in Ukraine and the Middle East, where 'the principles and standards of the UN are systematically undermined' by some countries.

Diplosphere's panel will discuss:

• What does 'rules-based order' even mean today? A few perspectives.
• Who should be making the rules in the present multipolar world?
• Rhetoric versus reality: Do our actions live up to our words?
• How does New Zealand balance its security 'club' membership without compromising an independent foreign policy?

Speakers:

• The Rt Hon Jim Bolger: Former New Zealand Prime Minister
• H.E. Ömür Ünsay, Turkish Ambassador
• Elizabeth Longworth, Chair, UNESCO NZ National Commission
• H.E. Viktor Vavricka, Swiss Ambassador
• Dr Rouzbeh Paris, Head of MENA, Swedish Institute of International Affairs

Chair: Maty Nikkhou-O'Brien: Executive Director, Diplosphere

Proceedings:

• 5:15pm-5:45pm: Mix & mingle
• 5:45pm-6:45pm: Panel discussion