Global Leaders Urged to Address “Powder Keg” World by UN Secretary-General Guterres
September 24, 2024 – United Nations Headquarters, New York
In a powerful address to the UN General Assembly, Secretary-General António Guterres outlined the urgent need for global solutions as the world stands on the brink of unprecedented challenges. Speaking ahead of the General Assembly's 79th session, Guterres painted a stark picture of a world engulfed in geopolitical tensions, rising temperatures, and a myriad of conflicts, including the ongoing crises in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan.
Describing the current global climate as a “purgatory of polarity,” Guterres called attention to the growing divisions among nations. He warned that unchecked aggressions are threatening the very foundation of international law, urging leaders to confront the escalating “impunity, inequality, and uncertainty” that define our times.
“Our world is in a whirlwind,” Guterres stated. “We are facing challenges unlike any we have ever seen, challenges that demand global solutions.” He emphasized that while the challenges are formidable, they are also solvable, provided there is a concerted effort to uphold international law and human rights.
In his address, Guterres referenced the recent Summit of the Future, which produced the Pact for the Future. He acknowledged it as a vital first step but stressed that more work is needed to unify global efforts towards peace and justice. “It is time for a just peace based on the UN Charter, on international law, and on UN resolutions,” he asserted, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Secretary-General pointed out the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, describing it as a “non-stop nightmare” that could destabilize the entire region. He warned that the escalating violence in Lebanon is a significant cause for concern, urging international cooperation to prevent further conflict.
As Guterres concluded his address, he called for a renewed commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and an accountability framework to address the pressing challenges of our time. “We must choose the future we want,” he said, reminding leaders that dialogue and compromise are essential to steering the world towards a sustainable path.
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