Power of Global Solidarity

The awareness of solidarity stands as one of the most crucial elements that unite nations and strengthen states. At its core lie the ideals of unity and cohesion.

Today, more than ever, the world is in dire need of solidarity. Wherever it is absent, conflicts, divisions, and the pursuit of personal ambitions prevail.
Personal ambitions, by their very nature, undermine the collective effort needed to confront humanity's global challenges.
Solidarity is not merely a political concept; it forms a foundational pillar of the global system of relations, encompassing every level of society — from grassroots communities to the highest levels of governance. In places where solidarity is lacking, deep-seated confrontations inevitably arise. Sadly, for many years, major centers of power and key political capitals, despite their declarations about the importance of solidarity, have delivered some of the most significant blows against it.

Solidarity is vital not only in family relationships or intergenerational bonds but also across political, economic, and cultural spheres. Where it is missing, destructive narratives take root. Political leaders who ignore the principles of solidarity often lead their nations into complex historical predicaments, leaving a tarnished legacy in world history.

At one end of the world, people are dying of hunger, while at the other, "megapolis branding" has become a fashionable trend, as if empathy belongs to a bygone era and has no relevance to the present.

Solidarity must not be treated as a trend — it should be embraced as a guiding principle. The problems humanity faces in the 21st century — from climate change and pandemics to economic and political instability — are challenges no single country, continent, or nation can solve alone. Throughout history, solidarity has taken many forms. From the earliest primitive societies to feudal structures, people had to cooperate to survive.

Accelerating globalization and boundless technological advancements have introduced new dimensions to the idea of solidarity: today, it must be not just local, but global. Despite our interconnectedness, enabled by technology, humanity today finds itself in a profound crisis of solidarity.
Sociological and political science research confirms that complex global problems can only be addressed through collective strategies. Issues such as climate change, pandemics, migration crises, and cybersecurity threats do not recognize geographic borders. When a system collapses in one part of the world, its repercussions inevitably spread to others — a scientific fact, not a mere assumption.

Thus, global solidarity is not simply an ethical imperative; it is a rational, pragmatic approach.

It is not a utopian dream — it is a scientific and historical necessity.

According to sociological theory, the stability of social systems depends on the degree of collective consciousness and solidarity. Whereas in classical times solidarity was rooted primarily in blood relations, national identity, or local communal living, today’s era of globalization has given rise to "artificial solidarity" models, such as international organizations and global legal frameworks.

The major challenges facing the modern world — climate change, water and food security, epidemiological risks — are not confined by national borders.
Reports by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) demonstrate that climate change systematically affects the entire planet, and local measures alone are no longer sufficient.

According to the United Nations' 2023 Global Sustainable Development Report, the gap between rich and poor countries continues to widen. Without equitable distribution of resources, global solidarity risks remaining nothing more than a normative declaration. Albert Einstein once said, "Only a life in the service of others is worth living." This thought powerfully underscores the critical importance of solidarity.

One thinker whose work I frequently study — a towering figure in political philosophy — John Dewey, once stated: "We live collectively, and only through joint action can we develop." By working together, individuals become stronger and capable of achieving far greater goals.

Yet, around the world, many states that speak eloquently about justice, solidarity, and universal human values, in critical moments, think only of themselves.
This was particularly evident during the global pandemic, when some countries, driven by so-called "vaccine nationalism," engaged in blatant injustices and discrimination — both against our nation and against other states suffering from occupation and terrorism. In contrast, Azerbaijan has consistently stood alongside oppressed peoples, poorer nations, and African states.

During the pandemic in 2020–2021, Azerbaijan actively participated in aid initiatives both regionally and globally. It sent medical supplies, masks, test kits, and financial assistance to over 30 countries. Moreover, Azerbaijan donated $10 million to the World Health Organization to support the fight against the pandemic.

The list of aid recipients included neighboring countries like Georgia and Iran, as well as nations in Africa such as Burundi, Chad, Eswatini, and others. This clearly demonstrates that Azerbaijan remains committed to the mission of global solidarity, not only within its region but across distant continents as well.
The hosting of COP29 in Baku stands as powerful recognition by the international community of Azerbaijan’s role as a "partner in global solidarity and sustainable development." Equally significant was the establishment of an international platform during the Forum on "Strengthening NGOs of the Global South," also held in Baku. All these facts and figures affirm that Azerbaijan is not just making proclamations — it is one of the true builders of global solidarity.
Global solidarity must extend beyond state-level initiatives; it should be reflected in the daily lives of each and every one of us. The Azerbaijani people have made a meaningful contribution to the spirit of solidarity — and have set an inspiring example for the world to follow.