Pretoria: South Africa will use the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to advocate for a stronger, more inclusive multilateral system while continuing to push for reforms that ensure Africa is permanently represented on the United Nations Security Council. Speaking during a media briefing in Pretoria, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola emphasized South Africa's commitment to the United Nations Charter and international law, arguing that the current global crisis demands stronger multilateral cooperation.
According to South African Government News Agency, the UN provisional schedule indicates that the High-level Meetings of the 81st Session will commence on 8 September 2026, with the general debate scheduled for 22-26 September and 28 September 2026. Minister Lamola stressed the importance of the consistent application of international law to protect civilians, preserve state sovereignty, and maintain international peace and security.
Lamola warned against the selective application of international law, stating that it undermines the credibility of the international system. He emphasized the need for equal application of international rules, regardless of a state's power or influence, to uphold the integrity of the international order. South Africa intends to work closely with the international community to uphold these principles during the General Assembly.
South Africa will collaborate with Bangladesh, which assumes the Presidency of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. The Minister welcomed this year's theme, 'Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All,' reflecting the need for a more effective and responsive multilateral system. He stated that the theme directly addresses the need to rebuild confidence in multilateral institutions at a time when international cooperation is under significant strain.
Minister Lamola also commended Germany for its leadership during the 80th Session of the General Assembly and acknowledged South Africa's support by seconding an official to the Office of the President of the General Assembly to advance Africa's priorities. He further acknowledged Ms. Thandekile Tshabalala for her contribution during her secondment.
South Africa's participation in the High-Level Week of the General Assembly will begin on 22 September 2026, as world leaders gather in New York to deliberate on pressing global issues. The country aims to use this platform to advance its foreign policy priorities, including strengthening multilateralism, promoting peaceful conflict resolution, advancing sustainable development, and advocating for reforms of global governance institutions.
This year's General Assembly coincides with the process to elect a new United Nations Secretary-General as Ant³nio Guterres' term comes to an end. Minister Lamola paid tribute to Guterres for his leadership during a period marked by multiple global crises and expressed South Africa's readiness to work with the next Secretary-General to reform the UN, ensuring that Africa secures permanent representation on the Security Council.
Lamola reiterated that reforming the United Nations is crucial for reflecting contemporary global realities and better positioning the institution to respond to the challenges facing developing countries. South Africa remains committed to championing a rules-based international order founded on equality among nations, respect for sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.