At the Ukraine summit, several countries declined to sign the final declaration, including South Africa, Saudi Arabia and India. These nations suggested that they did not believe the conflict was their concern, despite principles of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, protecting children from abduction, ensuring the safety of nuclear facilities and guaranteeing food supply being universally supported. More than a dozen countries in the global south refused to endorse these principles.
Countries such as Mexico, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia chose not to sign the declaration, while traditionally pro-Western states such as Jordan and United Arab Emirates also refrained from doing so. The absence of Brazil, which was only represented as an observer, and other emerging countries such as China and Central Asia’s former Soviet republics reflect a reluctance to become involved in the conflict. Many nations still view it as a struggle between Russia and the West, leading them to avoid taking a stance.
The conflict in Ukraine is often seen as a struggle between Russia and the West by many countries. However, despite Russia’s history of colonialist policies, some countries do not recognize it as an imperialist power. Anti-American sentiment, opportunism and a perception of double standards by Western states in other conflicts may contribute to this reluctance. Nevertheless, it is essential for all nations to uphold international law and condemn violence regardless of geopolitical considerations.
The focus should be on upholding fundamental principles of international law for peace-loving nations rather than choosing sides between Russia and the West. While the Bürgenstock summit failed to convince certain countries in the global south to support these principles, it is crucial for all nations to stand together in defense of these values and sovereign state rights.
