Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
2nd Report - The write to protect: Britain’s pen on the world stage
Foreign Affairs Committee
HC 930
Published 21 September 2025
Recommendations
1
Acknowledged
Seize UN80 anniversary opportunity to lead discussion on future of global multilateralism
Recommendation
We welcome and recognise the strong leadership demonstrated by the Government in leading on the UK’s global ‘re-engagement,’ including at and through the United Nations. The impending 80th anniversary of the creation of the United Nations system in September 2025, …
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Government Response Summary
The government agrees on the importance of the UN80 initiative and states it is committed to using its full range of diplomatic tools and has been an active participant in early negotiations. However, it does not outline specific new actions for proactively beginning a discussion on the future of multilateralism and the UK's role.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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Conclusions (4)
11
Conclusion
Acknowledged
We are concerned about the cuts to the FCDO’s budget, including those to the Directorate responsible for multilateral organisations such as the UN. Such measures will reduce the UK’s ability to be an effective penholder at the United Nations and to lead on the resolution of global conflict through the …
Government Response Summary
The government agrees the UK should continue to put forward and debate issues as a UN Security Council penholder, emphasizing a pragmatic and tailored approach to maximize positive impact and avoid normalizing vetoes. It highlights its use of various formats and meeting types to prompt debate, but does not directly address the committee's concern about budget cuts.
25
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Our evidence supports the view that UK’s roles as penholder for Cyprus at the United Nations Security Council and as a party to the Treaty of Guarantee in Cyprus do not represent a conflict of interest. (Conclusion, Paragraph 90)
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the conclusion that its roles in Cyprus do not represent a conflict of interest, and proceeds to detail its ongoing support for UN-led efforts, including leading the UNFICYP mandate renewal and engaging all sides to pursue a lasting settlement.
31
Conclusion
Acknowledged
We recognise, support and honour the thousands of United Nations peacekeepers who are upholding peace and security and taking risks to their lives in conflict zones around the world. (Conclusion, Paragraph 109)
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the committee's recognition of UN peacekeepers, affirming that peacekeeping remains an indispensable tool for peace and outlining its ongoing commitment to UN peacekeeping reform within the UN80 process, including advocacy as penholder for high standards and legitimacy.
36
Conclusion
Acknowledged
The UK has demonstrated strong leadership on the Somalia file at the United Nations, drawing on a network of African actors built up over two decades and a strong in-country presence. (Conclusion, Paragraph 119)
Government Response Summary
The government partially agrees, noting challenges in securing funding for AU Peace Support Operations in Somalia (AUSSOM). It highlights its proactive work with international partners, including co-hosting a side event and committing £16.5 million to AUSSOM, to build towards a sustainable funding solution.