"President Ruto: Time Has Come for a New Global Order That Works for All"

The world stands at a historic crossroads. The old systems of global governance, trade, and security—built in the aftermath of the Second World War—are no longer reflective of today’s realities. As I addressed students and scholars at Peking University in Beijing, I made it clear: it is time to rethink and rebuild a global order that serves all, not just a few.

The trade tariff wars unfolding before our eyes are not merely economic disputes. They are a symptom of deeper fractures in the global architecture. For decades, the frameworks that governed finance and security benefited a handful of nations, often to the detriment of the Global South. That status quo can no longer be sustained.

We now live in a world where emerging economies are not just participants—they are drivers of growth, innovation, and stability. Yet, these nations remain underrepresented in global decision-making. This imbalance must be corrected.

At the heart of my address was a call to action: we must urgently fashion a new world order—one that is inclusive, fair, and grounded in the realities of the 21st century. The current institutions must evolve, or risk irrelevance. Reforming bodies such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund is no longer optional—it is imperative.

Kenya and China, as key voices in the Global South, must continue to champion this cause together. Our partnership has proven that mutual respect and shared development goals can yield transformative results. Let us now take that spirit to the global stage.

Together, we must push for reforms that make global institutions more representative, transparent, and efficient. Whether it is in trade, climate action, health, or security—every voice must count, and every nation must matter.

April 23, 2025