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PRETORIA — In a resolute defence of rules-based global governance, South African International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister Ronald Lamola has called for an immediate end to the selective application of international law, warning that the eroding integrity of the United Nations Charter threatens the stability of the entire international order.
Speaking during a high-level media briefing on foreign policy priorities at the OR Tambo Building on Wednesday, Lamola outlined South Africa’s diplomatic trajectory ahead of the upcoming 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Against a backdrop of heightening global geopolitical friction, the Minister argued that the remedy to contemporary multilateral cynicism is not retreat, but structural renewal.
“We believe that the answer to the current crisis of multilateralism is not less multilateralism, but better and more inclusive multilateralism,” Lamola declared, establishing Pretoria’s key thesis for the upcoming diplomatic cycle.
Addressing reporters, Lamola stressed that the consistent application of international humanitarian law remains essential for protecting civilian lives, preventing escalating conflict, and safeguarding sovereign statehood. He warned that when powerful nations circumvent international norms without accountability, the resulting institutional decay imperils both conflict-affected populations and global security architecture at large.
“International law cannot be applied selectively. The credibility of the international system depends on the equal application of its rules, regardless of the power or influence of the states involved.” — Ronald Lamola, DIRCO Minister
South Africa’s participation in the UNGA High-Level Week is scheduled to commence on September 22, 2026. Pretoria will work in close coordination with Bangladesh, which assumes the Presidency of the 81st General Assembly session under the theme: “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All”. Lamola noted that this theme aligns directly with South Africa’s vision for a more responsive and accountable international body.
Reflecting on the preceding 80th session led by the Federal Republic of Germany, Lamola commended Germany’s leadership while highlighting South Africa’s direct diplomatic contributions. In a gesture underscoring Pretoria’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, South Africa seconded DIRCO official Ms. Thandekile Tshabalala to the Office of the President of the General Assembly to spearhead the advancement of the African agenda—a contribution the Minister praised as outstanding.
Crucially, the upcoming 81st General Assembly marks a pivotal institutional crossroads for the United Nations as Secretary-General António Guterres prepares to conclude his tenure. As the global body initiates the formal election process for a successor, Lamola commended Guterres for his steadfast leadership and commitment to a multilateralism focused on the tangible, lived experiences of global citizens.
However, looking ahead to the election of the next Secretary-General, Pretoria signalled that its endorsement will come with clear structural demands. Lamola underscored that South Africa expects the incoming UN leadership to drive decisive, post-colonial reforms within the organization—chief among them securing long-overdue permanent representation for Africa on the UN Security Council.
As diplomatic delegations prepare to convene in New York next month, Lamola’s message serves notice that South Africa will continue to position itself as an uncompromising advocate for the Global South, insisting that global governance must evolve beyond historic power imbalances to maintain its right to rule.
