Otunnu impresses, discusses UN reform, conflict resolution and AI

What the report says

Ambassador Olara Otunnu, Uganda’s candidate for UN Secretary-General, used an interactive dialogue with the UN General Assembly in New York to present his vision for the role, according to The Independent Uganda. The article says he emphasized major reforms at the United Nations, a more active approach to conflict mediation, and stronger efforts to ensure artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies benefit humanity.

Otunnu argued that the UN should stay focused on its core pillars of peace and security, human rights and sustainable development, while adapting to global upheaval and technological change. He said the Secretary-General should be more engaged in conflicts such as those in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, the Great Lakes region, the Horn of Africa and the Sahel, and should work directly with parties to help find openings for dialogue. He also stressed the heavy toll of war on civilians, especially women and children.

On UN reform, Otunnu said change should not be treated as optional and warned that the organization risks falling behind if it continues “business as usual.” He supported the broader reform push under UN80, but said reform should become a permanent part of the institution’s culture. He also called for human rights work that avoids politicization and better reflects different social and cultural contexts.

The report adds that Otunnu linked his pitch to practical peacebuilding experience in northern Uganda and said AI could help with health, financial inclusion and development if governed responsibly. The Independent Uganda framed the appearance as part of his bid for the top UN post after Uganda selected him as its nominee on July 24.