Colombian President Gustavo Petro has called for the relocation of the United Nations headquarters from New York to another city outside the United States.
This appeal was made during Petro’s address at the United Nations General Assembly, where he questioned the neutrality of the international organization if it remains geographically and politically tied to a single nation. He pointed out that true plurality “begins with location, not slogans.”
The Colombian leader stated, “If the UN is meant to represent all of humanity, why is it confined to one city and one political system? It is time to seriously consider moving the organization to a place that embodies neutrality and pluralism.”
This call comes amid escalating global tensions and increasing criticism of the dominance of major powers, particularly the United States, over decisions made by international organizations such as the Security Council and the General Assembly.
Observers note that Petro’s remarks reflect a growing trend in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, where there are increasing demands for genuine reforms within the framework of the international system and a more equitable distribution of power within the UN.
It is important to mention that this is not the first occasion the idea of relocating the UN headquarters has been proposed. Leaders from the Global South have raised this suggestion, particularly during significant crises, such as the Iraq war or ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.