Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake Advocates New Governance System At World Governments Summit

At the World Governments Summit (WGS), Sri Lanka's President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, emphasised the necessity for effective governance and social justice. He advocated for updating global frameworks like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to align with contemporary realities. During his visit to Dubai, marking his first trip to the Middle East, he addressed the global debt crisis, urging financial system restructuring and promoting digital economies to fight corruption.

President Dissanayake highlighted the importance of revising laws and governance systems to adapt to evolving political landscapes. He stressed that delivering justice and protecting humanity from emerging threats requires these changes. "The future demands a high degree of accountability and efficiency in governance. This requires the nurturing of a collective consciousness in all individuals," he stated.

The president warned about climate change's disproportionate effects on low-income countries and shared Sri Lanka's initiatives to preserve its natural beauty. He praised Sri Lanka’s rich history and resilient people, who are keenly aware of global issues while respecting traditions. "The people of my country are not only aware but are also sensitive over matters taking place in any country," he noted.

Dissanayake pointed out technology's transformative potential but cautioned against threats like cyberattacks. He called for enhanced global cybersecurity measures, questioning the absence of conventions for cyber warfare. "There are laws pertaining to conventional warfare where people are targeted by weapons, but where are the conventions pertaining to cyber warfare? Therefore, the entire world should move towards more robust cyber security systems," said Dissanayake.

The president urged unity in addressing transnational challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and digital transformation. He also highlighted global health issues, including communicable diseases' resurgence and non-communicable conditions like cancer and heart disease. Health experts predict mental illness-related costs will exceed 16 trillion dollars by 2030.

Dissanayake stressed focusing on digital health, new technologies, environmental health sustainability, and financial aid for economically vulnerable countries. Predictions indicate around 14.5 million could be affected by the climate crisis by 2050. "Therefore, it is important to focus attention on digital health, new technologies and modern health equipment," he added.

Summit Highlights

The summit theme ‘Shaping Future Governments’ brought together over 30 heads of state and government leaders from more than 80 international organisations. The agenda included 21 global forums exploring future trends with over 200 interactive sessions featuring more than 300 speakers such as presidents, ministers, experts, thought leaders, and decision-makers.

In his closing remarks, President Dissanayake called on global leaders to unite in crafting "a beautiful life and a beautiful world," reflecting Sri Lanka’s vision for a prosperous future. The summit will continue until February 13th with over 30 ministerial meetings attended by more than 400 ministers.

With inputs from WAM