Macron Warns Against ‘Survival of the Fittest’ in Global Affairs, Defends UN Order at General Assembly
French President Emmanuel Macron has urged world leaders to reject a “survival of the fittest” mindset in international relations, calling it a major risk that could undermine global cooperation. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Tuesday, 23 September 2025, Macron defended the current world order against critics like US President Donald Trump, who had earlier slammed the UN.
He stressed the need for renewed unity, saying: “The world’s complexity is not a reason to throw in the towel on our principles and our ambitions.” This comes amid ongoing global tensions, from the Ukraine war to Middle East conflicts, where Macron justified France’s support for both Ukraine and a Palestinian state.
As South Africa marks Heritage Day on 24 September, celebrating our diverse roots and shared history, Macron’s call for cooperation echoes the spirit of unity. In a world facing crises like climate change and inequality, his words remind us how international forums like the UN can help nations work together, much like South Africa’s rainbow nation strives for harmony.
Defending the UN Against Criticism
Macron pushed back against those attacking the UN, saying: “The UN’s harshest critics are also those that want to change the rule of the game, because they want to exert domination.” This seemed aimed at Trump, who earlier called the organisation ineffective. Macron argued for more multilateralism: “To a certain extent, ours is a moment of paradox. We need more than ever before to restore the spirit of cooperation that prevailed 80 years ago.”
He warned: “That is the major risk of our time… a risk of seeing the survival of the fittest. It is the risk of seeing the selfishness of a few prevail.” Macron called for stronger global ties to tackle shared challenges, rejecting isolationism.
Support for Ukraine and Palestine: No Double Standards
Macron stood firm on France’s positions in key conflicts. “It’s because there is this refusal of double standards that France will stand side by side with Ukraine, as we do for peace in the Middle East,” he said. He justified recognising a Palestinian state, announced on Monday, as a step toward justice: “The time has come to deliver justice.”
On Ukraine, Macron welcomed Trump’s shift, saying: “I welcome the fact that the president of the USA believes in Ukraine’s ability.” But he suggested Trump could do more: “If Trump wants Nobel peace prize, he should stop Gaza war.” This ties into Macron’s broader defence of multilateral efforts for peace.
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