World's 'forgotten conflicts' must not be left to grow unchecked

Regional conflicts in Africa and elsewhere have grown increasingly serious. The West has its hands full with the Russia-Ukraine war and discord in the Middle East, while Beijing and Moscow are reluctant to intervene in regional issues that do not directly affect their national interests. But allowing these crises to continue unchecked is dangerous, as it can lead to the spread of war crimes and other humanitarian problems.

It is understandable that countries would want to concentrate their diplomatic and military resources on issues that threaten their economies and public interests, and which could lead to a clash between major powers. But we must not overlook the fact that these "forgotten conflicts" are developing into serious crises. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that clashes around the world are becoming more complex, deadly and harder to resolve.