Baku: The First General Assembly of the Global South NGO Platform (GSNP) officially opened in Baku, Azerbaijan, on May 14 as part of the Baku Urban Week, bringing together representatives of civil society organizations and NGOs from more than 110 countries across Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the opening ceremony highlighted the growing importance of the Global South in shaping international cooperation, sustainable development, and inclusive global governance. A video presentation showcased the Platform's achievements during its first year of activity and its efforts to strengthen solidarity and partnerships among civil society organizations worldwide.
During the opening session, Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, emphasized that Azerbaijan considers itself an integral part of the Global South geographically, historically, culturally, and politically. He stressed that Azerbaijan understands the challenges faced by Global South countries, including the impacts of colonialism and neocolonialism, describing them as continuing challenges that still affect many nations today.
The event also included messages highlighting the importance of multilateralism, international cooperation, and inclusive participation in global decision-making. Speakers noted that the Global South NGO Platform serves as an important mechanism for solidarity, dialogue, and partnership among civil society organizations worldwide.
A historic moment of the Assembly was the election of Mr. Fuad Karimli as the new Secretary General of the Global South NGO Platform, marking a new chapter for the organization as it expands cooperation, amplifies the voices of NGOs, and promotes sustainable and people-centered development across regions.
Panel discussions moderated by Nadima Rahimli focused on the rapid urbanization challenges facing the world today. Speakers highlighted that more than half of the global population currently lives in urban areas, a figure expected to exceed 70% within the next two to three decades. Participants stressed that sustainable and inclusive cities require interconnected systems, inclusive economies, and stronger cooperation between governments and civil society.
The Assembly concluded with the adoption of the Final Declaration of the First General Assembly of the Global South NGO Platform, reaffirming commitments toward inclusive development, resilience, effective multilateralism, and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Representing HEAD - Human Environment Association for Development from Lebanon, member of UNEP Women's Major Group, Dr. Marie Therese Seif participated in the Assembly discussions, reaffirming Lebanon's active engagement in strengthening South-South cooperation, sustainable urban development, and inclusive civil society partnerships at the international level.