Averof Neofytou addresses UN Parliamentary Hearing on international law and the Pact for the Future

Cypriot MP Averof Neofytou, representing the Inter-Parliamentary Union delegation, spoke at the 2026 Parliamentary Hearing at UN Headquarters in New York. During the session titled "80 Years of the UN: Renewing Trust and Purpose," he highlighted the gap between international commitments and their practical implementation. Neofytou cited the ongoing division of Cyprus and non-compliance with Security Council resolutions as evidence of the multilateral system's weaknesses when international law is not applied consistently. He argued that for small states, respect for international law is an existential necessity rather than a political choice. Regarding the "Pact for the Future," he expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing that its success depends on effective parliamentary oversight and funding. He stressed the importance of national budgets in building economic resilience against territorial threats and financial shocks. Additionally, he called for targeted legislation to protect young people in the digital environment and to promote sustainable finance. Neofytou concluded that the Pact could restore UN credibility only if there is a genuine commitment to action and accountability.