Bolivia Loses UN Voting Rights Over Unpaid Membership Dues
Bolivia has lost its UN voting rights due to unpaid dues of $780,000 for 2024-2025. Former Foreign Minister Diego Pary criticized the government’s handling of diplomacy and highlighted the importance of the UN for Bolivia’s global presence. This situation raises concerns over the country’s credibility and engagement with international issues.
The United Nations (UN) has suspended Bolivia’s voting rights due to unpaid membership dues totaling approximately $780,000 for the 2024-2025 term. This situation has resulted in Bolivia being prohibited from participating in votes within the General Assembly, in accordance with Article 19 of the UN Charter, effective as of January 1, 2023. Former Foreign Minister Diego Pary stated, “The minimum amount due until December 2024 was US$780,000, but it was not paid and, since January 1, Bolivia cannot vote.”
Pary, who previously served as Bolivia’s permanent representative to the UN, criticized President Luis Arce Catacora for inadequate management and lack of engagement in multilateral diplomacy. He noted that only a few countries, like Afghanistan and Venezuela, share Bolivia’s arrears situation, suggesting that this deficit in financial obligations undermines Bolivia’s credibility on the international stage.
He emphasized the critical role of the UN as a platform where Bolivia can discuss global issues and maintain its international presence. Pary warned that the inability to meet financial commitments could adversely affect the country’s legal standing and attractiveness to investors, stating, “It is a space where all global issues are dealt with…. Bolivia has the opportunity to put its issues of interest on the agenda.”
Pary also articulated concerns regarding the overarching crisis in Bolivian diplomacy, emphasizing the government’s departure from indigenous values and raising alarm over the use of terms such as “terrorism” against protest leaders. He brings a rich background, having represented Bolivia both at the UN and the Organization of American States (OAS).
In summary, Bolivia’s suspension of voting rights within the UN highlights a critical lapse in financial responsibilities, which has been linked to inadequate diplomatic engagement by the current government. Former Minister Diego Pary underscores the importance of maintaining strong ties with international bodies like the UN to address global challenges effectively. The situation also raises concerns about the implications for Bolivia’s international credibility and indigenous values.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
