In his address to the UN General Assembly on January 15, 2025, Secretary-General António Guterres outlined critical priorities for the year ahead, urging member states to unite in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. Guterres emphasized the need for greater action to resolve ongoing conflicts, combat deepening inequalities, and tackle the escalating climate crisis.
Highlighting the urgency of conflict resolution, Guterres pointed to the escalating violence in regions such as Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and Haiti. He called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and reiterated the importance of diplomatic efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine. “Conflicts are multiplying, becoming messier and deadlier,” he stated, underscoring the necessity for renewed commitment to peace processes worldwide.
Addressing the issue of inequalities, Guterres noted that systemic disparities continue to undermine global stability and development. He stressed the importance of accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reforming global financial institutions to better reflect contemporary economic realities. “Inequalities can be beaten,” he declared, advocating for targeted actions to close the financing gap that hampers development efforts.
On climate action, Guterres warned that recent extreme weather events serve as stark reminders of the urgent need to combat climate change. He highlighted that global investments in clean energy now surpass those in fossil fuels, calling for enhanced commitments from developed nations to support climate adaptation efforts in developing countries. “The world now invests almost twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels,” he noted.
Guterres also addressed the rise of technology and its implications for society. Recognizing both its potential benefits and risks, he proposed establishing an Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure that technological advancements serve humanity’s interests while promoting equality and dignity. He cautioned against allowing unchecked technological growth to exacerbate existing inequalities.
Guterres’ address served as a clarion call for global cooperation and action in 2025. He urged member states to harness their collective efforts to confront these formidable challenges head-on while fostering hope and potential for meaningful change through united action.