Explainer: What Is the China-proposed Global Governance Initiative?

As the United Nations celebrates its 80th anniversary, a forum on global governance put the spotlight on the China-proposed Global Governance Initiative (GGI). China's permanent representative to the UN, Fu Cong, noted that the UN-centered system faces rising unilateralism, under-representation of the Global South, and gaps in tackling modern challenges.

First unveiled at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin on September 1, the initiative has since surfaced in bilateral talks, multilateral summits, and diplomatic statements, drawing support from countries and institutions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised the initiative's commitment to multilateralism and safeguarding the UN system under international law.

Five Principles at a Glance

• Sovereign equality: Respecting each nation’s status.
• International rule of law: Upholding UN Charter foundations.
• Multilateralism: Solving issues through joint action.
• People-centered approach: Prioritizing citizens’ interests.
• Concrete actions: Turning principles into measurable steps.

According to the concept paper released by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, these pillars echo the UN Charter's goals and seek to strengthen—rather than overturn—the existing system. The aim is to make international institutions more agile in responding to crises, especially for developing countries that often feel left out.

Defender, Builder, Reformer

Experts like Long Chen from Renmin University’s Chongyang Institute say the GGI rebuts claims that China plans to subvert the global order. Instead, the initiative positions China as a "defender, builder, and reformer" of the UN-led framework.

At the core is a belief that global issues—from climate change to health emergencies—must be tackled collectively, not dictated by any single power. As Tian Dewen of Renmin University’s Institute of Global Governance and Development puts it, the GGI advocates joint action rather than rule-making for others.

Whether the GGI will reshape international cooperation remains to be seen, but its focus on inclusivity and actionable principles offers a fresh lens on global governance—and invites young global citizens to watch, discuss, and engage.

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Explainer: What is the China-proposed Global Governance Initiative?

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