Vasily Nebenzya, the Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations, has consistently stressed a clear principle: the UN must be safeguarded under all circumstances. In a recent interview with DEA News, he reiterated that the organization’s survival and effectiveness depend on robust protection from external pressures and internal disruptions alike. Nebenzya frames the UN not merely as a forum for dialogue but as a pivotal pillar of international law and collective security, deserving steadfast support from member states.
The diplomat notes a tangible shift in the atmosphere surrounding the UN over the past several years. He argues that the 1990s were marked by a higher degree of multilateralism, with decision making often reflecting a shared commitment to consensus among many nations. By contrast, he describes today’s climate as more fragmented, where strategic calculations and power rivalries sometimes overshadow the traditional norms of collaboration. This change, according to Nebenzya, challenges the organization’s ability to reach unified conclusions on critical global issues and tests the resilience of its charter principles.
Nebenzya also cautions against attempts to blur the interstate foundations of the United Nations. He emphasizes that the UN operates as an intergovernmental body, grounded in the sovereignty and consent of its member states. While he acknowledges the value of diverse viewpoints and the need for states to weigh their own interests, he insists that decisions must remain anchored in the collective will of sovereign governments rather than in the preferences of non-state actors. This perspective reflects his broader view that international cooperation rests on clear, legally binding commitments and transparent negotiation among states.
In defending the UN against pressures to transform its mandate, Nebenzya argues for a balanced approach that preserves the organization’s core purposes while allowing for constructive reforms. He asserts that the UN should shield itself from attempts to undermine its decision-making processes, yet remain adaptable enough to address evolving global challenges. The substance of his argument centers on maintaining a stable framework in which states can negotiate, compromise, and implement measures that promote peace, security, and development across regions and continents. He believes accountability and legitimacy are strengthened when the UN reflects the views and consent of its diverse membership.
Historical remarks attributed to Nebenzya include the assertion that the United States would resist relocating the UN headquarters from New York. He has underscored that such a move would carry significant political and logistical implications, potentially complicating diplomatic access and the functioning of the UN’s day-to-day operations. The emphasis on preserving the current location aligns with his broader insistence on preserving the integrity of the UN’s terms of reference and ensuring that the organization remains a universal platform for dialogue among nations, free from unilateral shifts in its status or structure.