BEYOND THE BOUNDS OF A NATION'S TRUST FALL 

Images of trust remain abstract in the human mind, a sentiment indefinable within hazy pictures and words. Humans harbor the tendency to forge trust in intriguing ways, such as through the bare vulnerability of a trust fall. However, let us ask ourselves how the open trust of a single being compares to the trust fall of a populated nation, harboring children, women, and men: critical pieces of humanity. It's unfortunate to note that the relief of being caught is often unfelt by many nations, not to mention that the pursuit of the fall, to begin with, is often vested by those in power rather than one's people. I look back upon the numerous side events hosted last week during the United Nations 62nd Commission for Social Development, and the words of multilateralism, cooperation, and partnership sway in humming waves. These terms are beyond melodic, encapsulating the unity we must attain in order to accomplish the commission's theme. However, these precious words struggle to rise to fruition without the binding glue of trust. 

Calls to address the decline in humanity's trust remained unwavering. I listened as impeccable speakers discussed the erosion of trust in institutions and its subsequent outcome of compelling emotional and political outbursts among citizens. Many declared that without trust, society will struggle to develop effective solutions toward achieving the SDGs, eradicating poverty, and promoting social development. With these sentiments swirling around the room, many questioned the root cause of our decaying trust and the potential of rebuilding its presence. Although daunting, these queries were tackled during the commission, and the responses and reflections heard during these fora were truly enlightening. 

When youth and women look towards their nation's leaders, they not only glimpse upon unfamiliar faces but uncaught trust falls. One speaker expressed how the lack of trust witnessed today is brought upon by the already resounding unfairness of our present systems, which currently lack accountability, transparency, and inclusion. This reality is crushing to all and yet a reminder that we, as imperative portions of humanity, hold the power to reverse this truth by aiding in the promotion of accountability, inclusion, and society's endeavors to embody trust. Although this task is often easier said than done, commission speakers succeeded in delivering consecutive solutions. Many stated we must begin exploring novel systems that promote institutional trust. The method of enactment, agreed upon by many, was through the inception of a trust-based movement and inclusive culture within the international community, as this foundation will allow the capable people of our nations to valorously seek involvement in their governments not only through elections but also through policy development, youth involvement, unified peacekeeping efforts, and celebrated communal activism. 

Developing this foundation and compelling the fruition of a trustworthy culture will permit those within the margins of society's power structures to cease their apprehension towards institutional involvement, dissolving the profound unfairness and exclusion of our systems today. 

We, as humanity, are more than our governments, as our governments do not remain within the absence of humanity. Let us build deeper inclusion, unity, and trust within our governmental systems, for without the power of a community, a nation cannot be whole. Trust cannot be rebuilt overnight, but the unity of both state and people may reinvigorate it. Attending this year's commission was an honor, and I hope to see the incredible methods proposed to fortify trust in forthcoming action. 

Maya Alexis Mele is an intern at the Baha’i International Community United Nations Office