Ahsan secures victory at Oxford Union debate on Global South

Minister forcefully advocated for rights of developing nations and emphasised necessity of global justice

By Our Correspondent
February 03, 2025
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal at the Oxford Union debate. — Online/File
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal at the Oxford Union debate. — Online/File 

ISLAMABAD: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal triumphed at the Oxford Union debate by delivering a compelling argument on the failures of liberal democracy, securing victory with a decisive margin. According to official sources, Iqbal received 180 votes, while the opposing side managed to secure 145.

Addressing the international forum, Iqbal asserted that liberal democracy had led to injustice, poverty, and political instability in various regions. “Liberal democracy has fuelled extremism in the very nations that champion its ideals. These countries have become victims of hatred and inequality,” he stated.

The minister forcefully advocated for the rights of developing nations and emphasized the necessity of global justice. His speech resonated with the audience as he presented a strong case on behalf of the Global South.

According to the official communiqué of the debate, Iqbal cited the examples of occupied Kashmir and Palestine to underline the grave injustices endured by oppressed communities. He stated, “Both regions have suffered severe human rights violations, yet the global powers that claim to be champions of human rights have remained silent spectators.”

Iqbal further remarked that if liberal democracy truly upheld justice, the people of Kashmir and Palestine would have received their due rights.