THE unanimous adoption of Resolution 2788 (2025) by the UNSC, spearheaded by Pakistan, is a milestone that deserves both recognition and reflection.
Titled “Strengthening Mechanisms for Peaceful Settlement of Disputes,” the resolution reaffirms core principles of the UN Charter—chief among them the importance of preventive diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of disputes. It represents a notable diplomatic achievement for Pakistan, especially during its presidency of the Council for the month of July.
Under the stewardship of Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Pakistan has effectively spotlighted the urgent need for reinvigorating the UN’s peace architecture. This resolution, while general in its wording, sends an important signal: that the global community cannot afford to ignore unresolved disputes that continue to fuel instability and conflict. It emphasizes mediation, dialogue and confidence-building—tools that are crucial, not only in theory, but in their application to real-world crises. The renewed focus on Chapter VI of the UN Charter is a reminder that there exist peaceful paths to resolution—if only the will to pursue them is present. Pakistan’s role in drafting and promoting this resolution reaffirms its longstanding commitment to peace and international cooperation. For decades, it has advocated for the rights of peoples under occupation, calling for justice not just in rhetoric but in action. Ishaq Dar’s leadership in this regard is commendable as he continues to be a voice for the voiceless, courageously naming the aggressors and pressing for long-overdue accountability. However, the passage of resolutions alone is not enough. The credibility of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, is undermined when its own resolutions—especially those related to the right of self-determination for the Kashmiri and Palestinian people—remain unimplemented for decades. These are not just symbolic gestures; they are binding commitments that should have brought tangible relief to oppressed populations. The continued denial of these rights exposes the double standards and selective application of international norms. The international community, led by the Security Council, must move beyond statements and embrace meaningful enforcement. The failure to do so not only deepens the suffering of those under occupation but also erodes trust in the global system of governance meant to protect human rights and uphold peace. The latest resolution must lead to a concrete roadmap for peace—one that includes the implementation of long-ignored resolutions on Kashmir and Palestine, ensures accountability for aggressors and provides a genuine path to freedom for those under siege. Pakistan has shown its intent, vision and moral clarity. It is now up to the rest of the world to match that spirit—not in words, but in deeds.
