Ethiopia Calls for Global Governance Reform at BRICS Summit, Advocates for Equitable World Order
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 – Ethiopia has urged sweeping reforms to global governance and multilateral institutions, calling for a more just and representative international system. The appeal came during the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, where Ethiopian officials emphasized the need for structural changes to ensure fairness for developing nations.
Pushing for UN Security Council Reform
Ethiopia’s delegation reaffirmed its support for the African Union’s Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, which demand permanent African representation on the UN Security Council. The country stressed that Africa’s voice in global decision-making should be determined by the continent itself, not imposed by external powers.
“Global governance must reflect today’s realities, not the power structures of the past,” the delegation stated. “Africa deserves a seat at the table where its future is decided.”
Financial System Overhaul and Debt Relief
The delegation highlighted the urgent need for reforms in international financial institutions, including the World Bank and IMF. They argued that voting power and quotas should better reflect the economic weight of developing nations rather than outdated post-World War II allocations.
Ethiopia also called for improved debt-restructuring mechanisms to assist low-income countries struggling with unsustainable loans. “The current system penalizes the most vulnerable,” officials noted. “We need fairer solutions to prevent economic crises from spiraling out of control.”
WTO Accession and Trade Justice
As Ethiopia negotiates its accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), the delegation criticized the lengthy and restrictive entry process for developing nations. They urged reforms to make WTO membership more accessible while protecting least-developed countries (LDCs) from trade barriers disguised as environmental policies.
“Trade rules should empower, not exploit,” the delegation asserted. “Developing economies must not be held back by procedural hurdles or protectionist measures.”
A Unified BRICS Voice for Change
The BRICS summit, attended by foreign ministers from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and other partner nations, served as a platform for Ethiopia to rally support for systemic reforms. The country positioned itself as a key advocate for a more balanced world order, aligning with BRICS’ broader push to reshape global governance.
The two-day meeting in New Delhi concluded with discussions on strengthening cooperation among member states, though concrete policy shifts remain pending.
Why This Matters
Ethiopia’s stance reflects growing frustration among Global South nations over perceived inequities in international institutions. With rising debt burdens, unequal trade terms, and underrepresentation in key decision-making bodies, developing countries are increasingly demanding structural changes.
As BRICS expands its influence, Ethiopia’s vocal advocacy could signal a broader shift in how emerging economies engage with—and challenge—the existing world order.
— Reported by Nexio News
