On the afternoon of May 21, Gilles Michaud, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Safety and Security, visited Renmin University of China (RUC) and engaged in an in-depth thematic discussion with faculty and students on “Advancing Safe and Reliable UN Project Implementation: The Value of Multilateralism.” Students and faculty from the School of Global Governance actively participated in the forum, contributing lively exchanges and posing thoughtful questions to Mr. Michaud.
As UN Under-Secretary-General overseeing global security and safety affairs, Mr. Michaud has coordinated relief projects in regions such as Gaza, Sudan, and Afghanistan, accumulating extensive experience in international affairs. He has actively promoted international cooperation within multilateral frameworks, making outstanding contributions to advancing the UN’s vision. His department plays a critical role in safeguarding the implementation of UN mandates, covering key areas such as food security, protection of displaced populations, advancing peace processes, and post-crisis community rebuilding. These efforts aim to ensure the smooth execution of humanitarian operations in conflict zones, laying a foundation for global security and stability.
During the lecture, Mr. Michaud drew on the UN’s practices in complex environments to analyze current challenges facing international security. He highlighted that intertwined issues such as conflicts, cyber threats, disinformation, and climate change have created unprecedented pressures. However, in confronting these multifaceted global crises, he emphasized multilateralism as the key to breaking the deadlock. He specifically acknowledged China’s role as a “key driver” in the Security Council and peacekeeping operations, commending its proactive contributions to global peace and security. Additionally, Mr. Michaud encouraged students to cultivate overall abilities including critical thinking and cross-cultural understanding, urging them to inject fresh energy and wisdom into international organizations and become a new generation of leaders driving global development.
In the Q&A session, students from the School of Global Governance demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm, posing questions on topics such as essential qualities for UN staff. Mr. Michaud responded to each query with detailed and constructive feedback, fostering a dynamic dialogue. Concluding the event, he left the students with a heartfelt message: “The future is in your hands.” He stressed that a positive mindset forms the foundation of success, while critical thinking and the courage to ask questions are equally vital. He called on young scholars to actively engage in international affairs, not only embracing their responsibilities as “Chinese citizens” but also striving to become “global citizens” with a broad worldview. Together, he urged, they can help create a safer, fairer international environment and contribute to humanity’s peace and development.
This lecture not only provided RUC faculty and students with a rare opportunity to interact directly with a senior UN official but also deepened their understanding of multilateralism and global security. It further ignited their passion and determination to participate in international affairs and contribute to global progress.
