Bolivian President’s Farewell Speech at UNGA
In his final remarks at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) on Thursday, Bolivia’s socialist president, Luis Arce, highlighted the “death threat” facing Latin America due to ongoing anti-narcotics operations in international Caribbean waters. He condemned this situation as part of a larger issue affecting the region.
Arce is expected to resign in early November, as Bolivia heads to the polls on October 19, where the election will see a face-off between Senator Rodrigo Pas Pereira and former conservative president Jorge Kiroga. The socialist party, which Arce represents, has dominated Bolivian politics for nearly two decades but suffered losses in the recent August elections, failing to secure any senatorial seats and only obtaining two in the lower house.
During his speech, Arce criticized the United States and capitalism, accusing entrepreneurs of “misusing” artificial intelligence, which, he argued, exacerbates climate issues and increases the risk of global conflict. Furthermore, he voiced support for his ideological allies, Cuba and Venezuela, while denouncing US interventions as attempts to impose modern “Monroeism.”
He mentioned the multidimensional nature of contemporary warfare, which combines economic, cyber, and biological tactics along with traditional military strategies. He expressed concern that future confrontations could center around resources like water, jeopardizing both humanity and the planet’s overall health.
Highlighting Bolivia’s resources, Arce claimed they are being targeted by imperialist forces, particularly from the United States, which he accused of seeking to create conditions for “neocolonialism” across Latin America. He described the ongoing US military presence in the region as a significant threat and an infringement of international rights.
Arce stated that the US is not merely focused on combating drug trafficking in Latin America; rather, it aims to reassert control over the region by undermining democratic processes and adopting militarized responses. He characterized US strategies as focused on maintaining a unipolar global order while enriching a privileged elite.
Outside of Latin America, Arce condemned the conflict between Israel and Hamas, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza and perpetuating the displacement of Palestinians. He remarked that true peace would remain elusive as long as the Palestinian people lack sovereignty and recognition.
Addressing global issues, Arce condemned Western colonialism and argued for reparations for slavery and genocide, suggesting that such initiatives should be funded by military budgets. He called for a more empowered United Nations with better representation for historically marginalized groups.
