Lihong Shen Calls for Diplomacy and Collective Action to Rebuild Global Trust

Ms. Lihong Shen, Security Advisor and Representative of the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), has highlighted the importance of diplomacy, innovation and international cooperation in rebuilding trust in an increasingly fragmented world.

Speaking on the theme “Rebuilding Trust in a Fragmented World: Diplomacy, Innovation, and Collective Action for Global Resilience,” Ms. Shen reflected on how advances in technology have transformed communication and enabled people to access information from different parts of the world within seconds.

However, she noted that despite these unprecedented developments, the international community continues to face challenges that require stronger cooperation, trust and collective responsibility.

Technology and Information in a Connected World

Ms. Shen’s address highlighted how modern technology has changed the way people communicate, exchange knowledge and understand events beyond their immediate communities.

Information can now travel across continents almost instantly, creating opportunities for collaboration among governments, institutions, universities and communities.

Yet greater access to information does not automatically guarantee trust. The challenge is to ensure that communication, knowledge and innovation contribute to understanding, cooperation and meaningful solutions to shared problems.

Diplomacy as a Tool for Rebuilding Trust

The speech emphasised the continuing importance of diplomacy and international relations in addressing divisions and strengthening cooperation between nations.

Diplomatic engagement provides opportunities for dialogue, the peaceful management of disagreements and the development of common approaches to complex global challenges.

Building trust requires sustained engagement, mutual respect and a willingness among countries and institutions to work together, even when their interests or perspectives differ.

Collective Action Against Global Challenges

Ms. Shen also drew attention to the importance of international cooperation in responding to challenges that cross national borders.

Issues such as security threats, public health emergencies and economic disruptions demonstrate why countries cannot always address major problems independently.

Coordinated international action can help protect lives, strengthen preparedness and improve the ability of communities and institutions to respond to crises.

Strengthening Institutions and Global Resilience

The theme also raises important questions about the role of institutions in building a more resilient world.

Public confidence depends partly on institutions’ ability to communicate clearly, work transparently and cooperate effectively with the people and communities they serve.

Innovation can support these efforts, but lasting progress also requires responsible leadership, effective partnerships and a shared commitment to addressing challenges through constructive engagement.

A Call for Greater International Cooperation

Ms. Shen’s address underscored the importance of connecting diplomacy, innovation and collective action to rebuild trust and strengthen global resilience.

As countries navigate an increasingly interconnected world, continued dialogue and cooperation remain essential to addressing common challenges and supporting a more peaceful and secure future.

The message reinforces the need for governments, international organisations, academic institutions and communities to work together in turning shared knowledge into practical action.