by Maya Majueran

The Global Governance Initiative put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping comes at a critical moment in history. The existing international system is increasingly unable to manage a convergence of unprecedented, borderless challenges from climate change and pandemics to economic instability and geopolitical tensions. The initiative is not just a diplomatic gesture; it is a response to a global system under strain, offering a vision for a more just, inclusive and effective framework for international cooperation.

In my view, the initiative is built on five foundational principles:

Adhering to sovereign equality: Every nation, regardless of size, strength, or wealth, should have an equal voice in global decision-making and share the benefits of international cooperation.

Abiding by international rule of law: Global governance must be guided by universally recognized norms and laws, not selective interpretations or double standards.

Practicing multilateralism: Dialogue and cooperation among nations must replace unilateralism and bloc-based confrontation.

Advocating the people-centered approach: Human well-being and sustainable development should take precedence over geopolitical competition.

Focusing on taking real actions: Governance must deliver tangible outcomes rather than remain mired in rhetoric or symbolic gestures.

While these principles reflect fairness, accountability and inclusivity, the current Western-led system often falls short. In practice, global governance has been shaped by a hierarchy that privileges powerful nations, sidelining smaller or less influential countries while allowing dominant powers to dictate the global agenda.

This imbalance is further exacerbated by punitive measures -- sanctions, economic coercion, or political isolation -- imposed on nations that diverge from Western interests. Such actions are often justified under the guise of "rules" or "values," yet the application of these rules is inconsistent: allies of the West are shielded from scrutiny, while others face disproportionate consequences.

The endurance of this system is rooted in the West's control over key international institutions. Veto powers, financial dominance, and structural advantages enable Western nations to bend global rules to serve their interests. This impunity -- whether in military interventions, financial crises, or human rights violations -- undermines the legitimacy of global governance and erodes trust within the international community.

In contrast, the initiative seeks to correct these distortions by reaffirming the principle that all nations, big or small, rich or poor, must be equal participants in shaping global outcomes. Only through genuine inclusivity can the international system deliver fairness, stability and shared progress.

Importantly, the initiative is not an isolated proposal. It is part of a broader effort by China to promote global cooperation and reform. Emerging powers, developing nations and diverse regions are demanding a greater voice in shaping international norms and institutions.

The Global South is pressing for a new global governance framework that treats all nations equally. This emerging coalition seeks to challenge entrenched power structures and promote a system based on sovereign equality, mutual respect and inclusive decision-making. Their vision is not about replacing one bloc with another but about reshaping global governance to reflect the realities of a multipolar world where every country has a voice and a stake in shaping our shared future.

Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, China has consistently emphasized shared benefits, sovereign equality and respect for diverse development paths. The Global Governance Initiative continues this diplomatic trajectory, positioning China as a champion of inclusive multilateralism.

It proposes a model grounded in cooperation, international rule of law and tangible outcomes for people. By promoting reforms that align governance with fairness and inclusivity, China aims to reshape the foundations of the international order to better serve the collective interests of the Global South and the wider global community.

The world now stands at a critical juncture, confronted by lingering Cold War mentalities, hegemonism and protectionism. The initiative calls for moving beyond these outdated paradigms and building a governance system that reflects the interconnected realities of the 21st century.

The proposal has garnered global attention, with many recognizing the urgent need for reform. The SCO summit, where the initiative was introduced, underscores the growing importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges. By emphasizing sovereign equality, international rule of law and multilateralism, the initiative offers a pathway toward a more just and equitable world order.

We are at a historical inflection point. The defining problems we face today -- climate change, inequality and conflict -- are too complex and interconnected for any single nation to address alone. The current system is cracking under pressure. The initiative is not an attempt to create a "world government," but a timely effort to update the rules of cooperation to meet today's realities.

Without more effective collaboration, humanity risks failing to address these challenges, with catastrophic consequences for all. The Global Governance Initiative is not just appropriate -- it is essential.

Editor's note: Maya Majueran currently serves as the director of Belt & Road Initiative Sri Lanka, an independent and pioneering organization with strong expertise in Belt and Road Initiative advice and support.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Xinhua News Agency.