Category: Africa Press Organisation – English

Source: United Nations – English

r. President, Excellencies,

I thank the presidency of Algeria for convening this briefing.

The Middle East is in a period of profound transformation – rife with uncertainty, but also possibility.

It is clear the region is being re-shaped.  But it is far from clear what will emerge.   

We have a responsibility to help make sure the people of the Middle East come out of this turbulent period with peace, dignity and a horizon of hope grounded in action. 

Mr. President,

I am just back from Lebanon, where I met with the Lebanese leadership along with the UN family, including our peacekeeping troops. 

A new dawn is rising in Lebanon — with a government hopefully soon in place where all Lebanese will feel represented, and a State that will be able to guarantee security to all its citizens.

The United Nations — including the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon and UN Interim Force In Lebanon – is fully committed to supporting the Lebanese people on this path.

Despite enormous pressure, and with considerable risk, our peacekeeping forces stood their ground for peace to help deliver a cessation of hostilities. 

Here from this Council, I want to reiterate my profound gratitude and admiration to the women and men of UNIFIL.

I also extend my deep thanks to the troop-contributing countries.

During my visit to southern Lebanon, I saw firsthand the dramatic human impact and destruction caused by the conflict. 

Israelis were also victims, suffering loss and displacement. 

I fervently hope all from both sides will soon be able to return to the areas where they lived and resume their daily lives.

We will do all we can to relieve the suffering and support recovery.

Mr. President,

I can report that the cessation of hostilities is fragile.  But it is holding.

UNIFIL troops are undertaking vital efforts to nurture this process.  They are working closely with the Lebanese Armed Forces.

It is vital that the Israeli presence in the south ends as defined in the agreement, and that the Lebanese Armed Forces are present in the totality of Lebanon. 

In this regard, since 27 November, UNIFIL has carried out over 730 missions in cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces, facilitating their redeployment in more than 50 positions. 

UNIFIL has also facilitated 39 humanitarian missions — in coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces, the Lebanese Red Cross, various UN entities, and NGOs.

Our peacekeepers need strengthened capacities – including for clearing mines and disposing of unexploded ordnance – together with adaptation of the conduct of operations within their mandate.

Resolution 1701 is clear:  The area between the Blue Line and the Litani River must be free of all armed personnel, assets and weapons — other than those of the Government of Lebanon and UNIFIL.

The parties must fully implement resolution 1701, respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon, and end the violence once and for all. 

The UN will continue to support all efforts to transform the cessation of hostilities into true peace.

Mr. President,

In Gaza, at long last, the ceasefire and hostage release deal offer a ray of hope. 

I commend Egypt, Qatar, and the United States for their steadfast efforts to secure that deal.

Yesterday, the first three female hostages were released as part of the first phase.  Ninety Palestinian prisoners were also released by Israel.

While many challenges lie ahead, we should appreciate the long-overdue relief this moment provides for Palestinians in Gaza and the hostages reunited with their loved ones.

We are doing our part to ensure the rapid scaling up of humanitarian deliveries.

More than 630 trucks with humanitarian aid entered Gaza yesterday, at least 300 of them to the north.

Mr. President,

I want to repeat:  Nothing justifies the appalling October 7 terror attacks by Hamas. 

And nothing justifies the dramatic levels of death and destruction inflicted on the Palestinian people in Gaza.

We have been relentless in calling for an immediate ceasefire. The immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. And immediate action to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of life-saving aid to all those in need.

Now the parties must make good on their commitments and fully implement the deal.

I urge the parties to ensure that this deal leads to the release of all hostages and a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

For our part, the United Nations will do all we can to advance these efforts — in particular, to scale up humanitarian aid across Gaza, fully aware of the significant obstacles, challenges and constraints that we still face.

Specifically, the ceasefire must translate into at least four simultaneous actions on the ground:

First, United Nations entities – including the backbone of our humanitarian response, UNRWA – must be able to perform their functions without hindrance. 

The UN must have rapid, safe and unimpeded access through all available channels and crossings to deliver food, water, medicine, fuel, shelter, and materials to repair infrastructure across Gaza, including the north.

Other humanitarian organizations — including local and international NGOs — and the private sector must also have unimpeded safe passage. 

Visas, permits, and other enabling conditions must be in place quickly to allow a surge of desperately needed relief.

Second, scaling up the delivery of aid and essential services demands safe conditions and a conducive operating environment.

We require the necessary technical, protective and communications equipment.

To do our work, the parties must coordinate with the UN system in a timely and effective manner.

This also includes the restoration of public order and safety to prevent the looting of humanitarian supplies.

Third, people must be able to access life-saving aid.

This includes medical evacuations for those who need it – and I urge Member States to take in those patients. 

Sufficient commercial supplies must also be allowed to enter Gaza to meet the overwhelming needs of the population.

Fourth, and fundamentally, civilians must be protected, and those seeking to return to their communities must have safe passage.

Explosive ordnance must be removed. The recovery of human remains must be conducted with dignity and respect.

I urge the Security Council and all Member States to support all efforts to implement this ceasefire, bring about a permanent cessation of hostilities, ensure accountability, and create the conditions for recovery and reconstruction.

The international media must also be allowed into Gaza to report on this crucial story on the ground.

Mr. President,

We must seize the opportunity presented by the ceasefire deal to intensify efforts toward addressing governance and security frameworks in Gaza.

The Palestinian Authority has said it stands ready to assume its role and responsibilities in Gaza.

I urge collective support for the creation of security and governance arrangements that will enable Gaza to be re-unified politically, economically, socially, and administratively with the West Bank.

Regrettably, the situation in the West Bank continues to worsen – with clashes, airstrikes, and unabated illegal settlement expansion and demolitions.

I am deeply concerned about an existential threat to the integrity and contiguity of the Occupied Palestinian Territory of Gaza and the West Bank.

Israeli administrative changes over the past two years have streamlined and accelerated the settlement approval process.

As a result, control over many aspects of planning and daily life in Area C of the West Bank has been transferred to Israeli civilian authorities.

Senior Israeli officials openly speak of formally annexing all or part of the West Bank in the coming months.  

Any such annexation would constitute a most serious violation of international law.

It is clear that greater stability in the Middle East requires irreversible action toward a two-State solution, with Israel and Palestine living side-by-side in peace and security, in line with international law, relevant UN resolutions, and previous agreements, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States.

The United Nations will continue to support every effort to advance peace, stability and a more hopeful future for Palestinians and Israelis – and the broader region.

Excellencies,

Finally, with respect to that broader region, allow me to say a few words about Syria.

For centuries, Syria has been a crossroads of civilizations.  Now it stands at a crossroads of history. 

Following the fall of the brutal previous regime and years of bloodshed, there is a possibility of promise for the people of Syria.

We cannot let the flame of hope turn into an inferno of chaos. 

The United Nations is committed to working with Syrians and the international community to support a Syrian-led process that ensures a credible and inclusive political transition, in line with the key principles of Security Council Resolution 2254.

I welcome the steps taken by Member States showing solidarity with Syrians.

But much more significant work in addressing sanctions and designations will inevitably be necessary, particularly in light of the country’s urgent economic needs. 

Advancing an inclusive political transition is the most effective means to ensure that Syria receives more support.
 
As Syria travels a new path and seeks to rebuild its institutions and political systems, we will support an inclusive process in which the rights of all are fully respected, and that paves the way towards a united and sovereign Syria with its territorial integrity fully reestablished.

Mr. President,

In Lebanon, Israel, the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Syria, and beyond, let us keep working for peace and security. 

As the region is undergoing a profound transformation, we must spare no effort to help shape it in the form of more justice, dignity, human rights, and peace for all the people of the Middle East.

Thank you.
 

Source: United Nations – English

ear Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro Sáenz and the mission leadership,

Dear Team UNIFIL,

It is such an honour to be with you after one of the most challenging periods imaginable.

I told the world that all of you are not just on the Blue Line of Lebanon, you are on the front line of peace.

The UNIFIL mission is the most challenging environment for peacekeepers anywhere. 

Day after day – month after month – you stood with bravery, dedication, and resilience in the face of strikes across the Blue Line.

And your continued service — in line with the decision for peacekeepers to remain in position to implement your mandate under resolution 1701 – was essential and remarkable. 

You showed the value of ‘blue helmets’ to deter violence, support de-escalation, provide humanitarian access, and protect civilians.

Your contributions have been crucial in supporting the restoration of stability in southern Lebanon and along the Blue Line.

I am so proud of you all.

I want you to know that the decision for UNIFIL to remain in position was taken after deep consideration for the safety and security of all its members,

I have been crystal clear: all parties have an obligation to ensure the safety of our personnel.

The inviolability of UN premises must be respected, at all times.

Attacks against UN peacekeepers are completely unacceptable.

They are in breach of international law, against international humanitarian law and may constitute a war crime.

Now, thanks in no small part to your efforts, we are in a period of relative calm that needs to be nurtured. 

This represents a long-awaited opportunity to support the parties make real progress towards fully implementing resolution 1701 and delivering enduring security and stability for the people of Lebanon and Israel.

You have our full support in making the adjustments that may be needed in this new stage.

We will continue to work closely with troop-contributing-countries to ensure you have strengthened capacities — including for clearing mines and disposing of unexploded ordnance — so that you can resume mandated patrolling and monitoring functions.

I know these capacities, together with the adaptation of the conduct of operations within your mandate, are vital for the mission to regain freedom of movement and access throughout the mission’s area of operations.

I will underscore these messages in my meetings with the Lebanese leadership this afternoon.

The continued occupation by the Israel Defense Forces inside the UNIFIL area operations and the conduct of military operations in Lebanese territory are violations of resolution 1701 and pose continued risk to your safety and security.

They must stop.

I note that that UNIFIL also uncovered over a 100 weapons caches belonging to Hezbollah or other armed groups since 27 November.

The presence of armed personnel, assets and weapons other than those of the Government of Lebanon and of UNIFIL between the Blue Line and Litani River are also clear violations of resolution 1701 and undermine Lebanon’s stability. 

I will also reiterate this in my meetings in Beirut.

The Lebanese Armed Forces, as the sole guarantor of Lebanon’s security, are deploying in greater numbers to southern Lebanon, including with the assistance of UNIFIL as well as the members of the mechanism established under the cessation of hostilities.

Your strong support for, and your closer coordination with, the Lebanese Armed Forces will be fundamental in supporting an enduring cessation of hostilities and realizing the ultimate goal of resolution 1701.

We will continue to urge the international community to strengthen support to the Lebanese Armed Forces.

The path ahead is full of challenge. But together we can help make good on this window of opportunity.

Once again, thank you for all you have done – and all you are doing – for peace.

 
 

Source: United Nations – English

xcellencies, Ladies and gentlemen,

Let me begin by wishing you and your families a very happy and healthy 2025.

Excellencies,

Let’s start with the good news.

It is understandable to get overwhelmed by the turmoil of our world. 

But as we look to the year ahead, we must never lose sight of progress and potential.

And there are signs of hope.

Negotiators are in the final stages of a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. 

Meanwhile, the ceasefire in Lebanon is largely holding – and the country was finally able to elect a President after over two years of stalemate.

On the climate front, the world now invests almost twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels.
 
And almost everywhere, solar and wind are now the cheapest sources of new electricity — and the fastest growing in history.

In much of the world, girls have achieved parity in education.
More children are surviving today than ever before.  HIV infections continue to dramatically decline, along with malaria mortality rates.

We have seen meaningful new steps to reduce child marriage, protect our oceans, and expand internet access.

And we begin 2025 lifted by the commitments of the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations. 

These measures are an affirmation of the power and purpose of our United Nations in our eightieth anniversary year.

Through thick and thin, the world has come together through the United Nations to tackle some of the most intractable problems.

Easing tensions.

Forging and keeping peace.

Setting bold goals to fight poverty, hunger, inequality and climate change. 

Seeking accountability for violations of international law, including international human rights law.

Delivering lifesaving aid in the most desperate places on earth.

From day one, the United Nations has represented the global conscience.

In a world seemingly hellbent on destruction, our organization has been a force of construction.

And, every day, we continue to strengthen how we work and deliver.

From bolstering the UN development system on the ground … to achieving gender parity at the highest levels.

We remain restless for reform – striving to be more effective and cost-effective … simplifying procedures and decentralizing decisions … enhancing transparency and accountability … and shifting resources to invest in data, digital, innovation, strategic foresight and behavioral science through our UN 2.0 initiative.

The United Nations reflects a key truth: global problems demand global solutions.

The more the UN does together to address big challenges around the world, the less the burden on individual countries to do it alone.  

Excellencies,

This spirit of hope rooted in action must propel us forward.

Yes, there is progress in our tumultuous world. 

But let’s have no illusions:  this is very much a world in turmoil and grave uncertainty.
 
Our actions — or inactions — have unleashed a modern-day Pandora’s box of ills.

Four of those ills stand out because they represent, at best, threats that could disrupt every aspect of our agenda and, at worst, upend our very existence:

Runaway conflicts. 

Rampant inequalities. 

The raging climate crisis. 

And out-of-control technology.

The good news is that we have the plans to tackle these challenges.  

We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. 

We need to get the wheel moving.
 
Through acceleration and transformation – oriented around the Pact for the Future, the implementation of which will be a central priority in 2025.

Excellencies,

Let’s start with peace.

Conflicts are multiplying, becoming messier and deadlier.

Deepening geo-political divisions and mistrust are adding fuel to the fire.
The nuclear threat is at its highest in decades.

The spectrum of human rights is under constant attack.

Impunity is endemic — with serial violations of international law, international humanitarian law and the UN Charter – and systematic assaults on our very institutions.

In Gaza, we have been relentless in calling for an immediate ceasefire.  The immediate and unconditional release of the hostages.  And immediate action to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of life-saving aid. 

I want to once again salute the backbone of the humanitarian response, our colleagues in UNRWA.

Of course nothing can justify the terror attacks by Hamas on October 7th.

And nothing can justify the dramatic levels of death and destruction inflicted on the Palestinian people. 

For months, there has been no ceiling to the suffering and no bottom to the horrors. 

I strongly appeal to all parties to finalize a ceasefire and hostage release deal sooner rather than later. 

Excellencies,

Across the region, we are seeing a reshaping of the Middle East. 

What is far less clear is what will emerge. 

In Israel and Palestine, will we see irreversible action toward a two-State solution, in line with UN resolutions, international law, and previous agreements — as we have constantly advocated? 

Or will we instead see steady annexation by Israel … the denial of the Palestinian people’s rights and dignity … and the destruction of any chance of sustainable peace?

In Syria, after years of bloodshed, will we see a country that can finally be a beacon of different faiths, traditions and communities shaping an inclusive, free and peaceful future — as we continue to do everything to support?

Or will we see fragmentation, along with the trampling of rights of minorities and women and girls? 

In Iran, will we see concrete actions to ensure a clear renunciation of any nuclear weapons programme … and contributions to a new regional security framework where the sovereignty of every state is respected – allowing for the full integration of Iran into the global economy?  This is what we hope will become possible.

Or will we see escalations with unpredictable consequences?

Throughout the region, we must deny extremists a veto over a peaceful future.

Tonight, I am leaving for Lebanon on a visit of solidarity with the Lebanese people and our peacekeeping forces.

A window has opened for a new era of institutional stability, with a State fully able to protect its citizens, and a system that would allow the tremendous potential of the Lebanese people to flourish.

We will do everything to help keep that window open wide – a window that will allow both Lebanese and Israelis to live in security.

Excellencies,

There is a world of pain beyond the Middle East.

In Ukraine, the war is on the verge of its fourth year.  We must spare no effort for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace, in line with the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions.

In Sudan, the warring parties have triggered widespread bloodshed, the world’s largest displacement crisis and famine.  We are engaging all parties to protect civilians, de-escalate the conflict and find a path to peace.

In the Sahel, we are working with partners for a renewed dialogue to strengthen regional cooperation and to address common threats especially terror and violent extremism.

In Haiti, armed criminal gangs continue to run rampant.  At the very least, we must ensure that the Multinational Security Support Mission receives sustainable and predictable funding.

Just as we must for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia.

From Myanmar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Yemen and far beyond, we must keep working for peace.  This is the raison d’etre of the United Nations. 

And that includes advancing the Pact for the Future’s commitments:  prioritizing conflict prevention, mediation, conflict resolution and peacebuilding;  continuing to strengthen peacekeeping; the meaningful inclusion of women in political and peace processes; the first multilateral agreement on nuclear disarmament in more than a decade; new strategies to end the use of chemical and biological weapons; vital efforts to prevent an arms race in outer space and advance discussions on the use of lethal autonomous weapons; and an updated understanding of the impact of today’s arms race on sustainable development, the full program coming from the Pact.    

Excellences,

Cette boîte de Pandore moderne propage également les inégalités.

Ces énormes inégalités sont le signe indéniable que quelque chose est profondément rompu dans nos systèmes sociaux, économiques, politiques et financiers.

Il est possible de venir à bout des inégalités — si nous nous engageons à mener des politiques qui favorisent l’équité, au lieu de nous accrocher aux vieilles recettes qui ont tant échoué.

Nous devons agir sur plusieurs fronts.

Il faut d’abord accélérer les efforts pour atteindre les Objectifs de développement durable.

À cinq ans de 2030, moins d’un cinquième des Objectifs sont en bonne voie — une situation aggravée par un déficit de financement annuel de 4000 milliards de dollars.

Accélérer exige de se concentrer sur les domaines à fort impact – comme l’éradication de la pauvreté, la sécurité alimentaire, l’éducation de qualité pour tous, la protection sociale, une couverture sanitaire universelle, l’accès à l’énergie, la transition numérique et la réduction des effets du changement climatique.

Nous devons aussi accorder une attention toute particulière aux besoins de l’Afrique.
Le financement est ici essentiel.

Le Pacte pour l’Avenir apporte un soutien clair à un Plan de relance des Objectifs de développement durable pour aider à combler l’écart de financement.

Il appelle les donateurs à respecter leurs engagements en matière d’aide publique au développement, et le secteur privé à investir dans le développement durable du monde en développement.

Enfin, le Pacte plaide pour des systèmes solides de protection sociale, des échanges commerciaux ouverts favorisant la croissance et le développement des pays – et une fiscalité au service de l’équité et d’une prospérité partagée.

Nous devons également lutter contre les inégalités en réformant et en modernisant les institutions financières mondiales afin qu’elles reflètent l’économie de notre époque — et non celle de 1945.

Les pays en développement doivent être équitablement représentés dans la gouvernance des institutions dont ils dépendent.

Nous devons renforcer le filet de sécurité mondial – et considérablement accroître la capacité des banques multilatérales de développement, les rendant ainsi plus grandes et plus audacieuses.
 
Et nous devons veiller à ce que les financements concessionnels soient octroyés là où ils sont les plus nécessaires, en tenant compte des vulnérabilités et pas seulement du PIB par habitant.
 
Nous allons multiplier nos appels en faveur d’actions significatives pour aider les pays surendettés ou au bord du surendettement – afin qu’ils disposent d’une plus grande capacité budgétaire pour investir dans les ODD.
 
Dans le même temps, nous devons renforcer et améliorer l’architecture de la dette souveraine pour permettre aux États d’emprunter en toute confiance, comme l’exige le Programme 2030.
 
J’ai demandé à un groupe d’experts de proposer des mesures concrètes en vue de sortir de cette impasse et d’impulser un élan d’action sur la dette.
 
Excellences,
 
Cette année, nous disposons d’opportunités rares pour réaliser des avancées majeures sur les Objectifs de développement durable.
 
De la Conférence sur le financement du développement… au Sommet mondial pour le développement social… du Sommet G20 sous la Présidence de l’Afrique du Sud… à la COP 30 au Brésil… à la Conférence de l’ONU sur l’océan… ou encore à Beijing plus 30.
 
Ce qui m’amène à évoquer un autre moyen essentiel pour combattre les inégalités – le développement des opportunités pour les femmes et les filles.
 Le Pacte pour l’Avenir appelle tous les pays à atteindre une pleine égalité entre les genres.
 
En levant tous les obstacles juridiques, sociaux et économiques.
 
En prenant des mesures ciblées et rapides pour mettre fin à toute forme de violence et de harcèlement envers les femmes et les filles – y compris les violences sexuelles et sexistes.
 
En accélérant les investissements pour combler l’écart salarial entre les genres, notamment dans l’économie des soins.

Et en garantissant une participation et des opportunités de leadership égales – que ce soit dans les conseils d’administration, les sphères de pouvoir politique ou encore les secteurs d’économies verte et numérique.
 
Nous devons aussi lutter contre les inégalités en soutenant la jeunesse, partout dans le monde.
 
La Déclaration sur les générations futures engage à renforcer la participation des jeunes aux processus décisionnels –– aux niveaux national et mondial.
 
C’est ce que nous faisons grâce à notre nouveau Bureau des Nations Unies pour la jeunesse, qui est désormais pleinement opérationnel.
 
Et le Pacte numérique mondial appelle tous les pays à soutenir les jeunes innovateurs, à cultiver l’esprit entrepreneurial et à doter la prochaine génération des connaissances et compétences numériques nécessaires.
 
Les inégalités sont également alimentées par les fléaux de la discrimination et des discours de haine.
 
Nous devons œuvrer en faveur de communautés inclusives et mettre fin à la propagation de la haine et de l’intolérance – y compris l’antisémitisme, l’islamophobie, et la discrimination envers les communautés chrétiennes minoritaires.
 
Cela est d’autant plus important à l’heure où les mécanismes de protection sur les réseaux sociaux sont démantelés – laissant libre cours à la prolifération de la désinformation et des discours haineux.

Excellencies,

The Pandora’s Box has also let loose the climate crisis that is ravaging and savaging our world. 

Look no further than the hills of Los Angeles.

It has gone from the home of disaster movies to a scene of disaster.

Who pays the price for climate destruction around the world?
Not the fossil fuel industry pocketing profits and taxpayer subsidies as their products wreak havoc.

Everyday people suffer: with their lives and livelihoods; with higher insurance premiums, volatile energy bills, and higher food prices. 

And particularly the most vulnerable, who have done the least to unleash this devastation.

Before the Paris Agreement, we were on a pathway to over four-degrees of temperature rise by the end of the century.  It is true that we are slowly bending down the curve. 

But every year since Paris has also been among the hottest ever – and last year was the first to push past 1.5 degrees. 

At the same time, we have a huge opportunity before us.  The renewables revolution is unstoppable and everyday people will benefit:

With lower costs of living and better health; energy security, energy sovereignty, good jobs, and millions connected to cheap, accessible power. 

Ten years on from the Paris agreement, 90 per cent of the world has now committed to net zero.

But we must work much harder. 

We need to shift our collective efforts into overdrive and deliver on the goals of the Paris Agreement. 

The math is clear: Global emissions must peak this year and rapidly decline thereafter if we are to have a sliver of a hope of limiting long-term global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees.

This year, every country has pledged to submit new economy-wide national climate action plans – or NDCs – that align with 1.5 degrees.

These new plans represent a chance to embrace the opportunities of the clean energy era.  They must cover all sectors and all greenhouse gases.

Together, they must cut emissions 60 per cent by 2035, compared to 2019 levels, with clear reduction targets for fossil fuel production and consumption. 

And they must show how every country will contribute to the global goals agreed at COP28 – on deforestation, and the energy transition.

The G20 must lead, given the scale of their emissions.

All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. 

We recognize circumstances and capabilities that vary around the globe — but we also recognize that all countries must do more.  

So will the United Nations.

I am working closely with COP30 host, President Lula of Brazil to drive action.

And I am writing to leaders of the largest economies and emitters to encourage them to cooperate and seize this chance.

At the same time, the United Nations system is helping nearly 100 developing countries prepare their new national climate action plans.

And we will convene a special event to take stock of the plans of all countries, push for action to keep 1.5 within reach, and deliver climate justice.

I will also invite businesses, financial institutions, cities, regions and civil society to come with credible 1.5-aligned transition plans, in line with our Integrity Matters report.

To those in business, finance and beyond who remain committed to credible climate action, despite all the pressures we are seeing, I say:

You are on the right side of history.  Keep it up.

And to governments, I say:

Get behind them. Provide the policy and regulatory certainty business needs.

Address barriers to action. Incentivize the green transition.

And accelerate the shift from voluntary pledges to mandatory rules.
Excellencies,

The battle for 1.5 cannot be won without a fast, fair and funded fossil-fuel phase-out worldwide. 

Today, governments around the globe spend nine times more to make fossil fuels cheaper than they do on making clean energy more affordable for consumers.

And barriers – such as high capital costs – are preventing countries from reaping the benefits of the renewables revolution.

We must tear down these walls.

And deliver on climate finance across the board – including through international financial architecture reform.

The COP29 agreement on finance must be implemented in full.

The United Nations will help mobilize support for just energy transitions.

We will help drive the implementation of carbon pricing and the wind-down of fossil fuel subsidies. 

And we will support the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to deliver a credible roadmap to mobilize $1.3 trillion a year as agreed, needed to support climate action in the developing world.

It is time to start implementing new and innovative sources of finance, including holding polluters accountable for the damage they have caused. 

Developed countries must make good on their promise to double adaptation finance to at least $40 billion a year this year.

We must implement the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All Initiative. 

At the same time, we need a transformation in the world’s approach to loss and damage – with a major boost to the new Fund.

Let’s be clear.  To put it in perspective, the amount pledged to date is less than the recent contract signed by one baseball player in New York City.
Excellencies,

Finally, technology is also racing out of the Pandora’s Box.

Of course, the technological revolution offers unprecedented opportunities.

But it also demands careful stewardship.

We have a historic responsibility to make sure this revolution benefits humanity, not just a privileged few.

The Global Digital Compact provides a roadmap for translating aspirations into action – with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence.

The United Nations must act – rapidly and decisively – in three ways:

First – everyone must have equal access to the latest AI knowledge and insights.

The Compact calls for an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI. 

By pooling expertise across regions and disciplines, this Panel would help bridge knowledge gaps and help every nation make the most informed AI policy decisions.
The Panel has the potential to become the go-to resource, offering clear and impartial analysis of AI capabilities, opportunities, and potential risks.

I urge the General Assembly to establish the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI without delay.

Second – we must foster AI governance that protects human rights while promoting innovation.

The world needs AI that is ethical, safe, and secure.

The Compact calls for a Global Dialogue on AI Governance:

An inclusive space for stakeholders to come together, under the auspices of the UN, to develop and coordinate policies, share best practices, and ensure interoperability.  This would build on existing global initiatives.
Through this Dialogue, we can advance international guardrails that uphold human rights, prevent misuse, and encourage responsible innovation.

We can tackle emerging challenges – from algorithmic bias to data privacy concerns.

And we can foster fair access to AI benchmarks and governance tools, ensuring low-income countries their rightful voice in establishing governance standards.

I urge the General Assembly to initiate the process for the Dialogue to begin this year and continue on a regular basis.

And I look forward to working with Spain and Costa Rica, as co-facilitators, to deliver on these efforts and the Compact’s wider vision on AI governance.

Third – we must support developing countries in leveraging AI for sustainable development.

AI can help reduce poverty, improve healthcare and education, accelerate scientific discovery and drive sustainable growth.

But that requires bridging the global AI divide that is now growing.

I will soon present a report on innovative voluntary financing models and capacity-building initiatives to help the Global South harness AI for the greater good.

To advance all these goals, a new United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies will support Member States, facilitating coordination and action across the UN system and existing mechanisms.

I thank the General Assembly for establishing the Office and I urge you to resource it fully.

Humanity’s hand must be firmly in control of technology.
As AI reshapes our world, every nation must help shape AI.

Together, let’s ensure Artificial Intelligence serves its highest purpose:

Advancing human progress, equality, and dignity. 
Excellencies,

These are the ills from the modern-day Pandora’s box that we must address as a matter of priority:  conflict, inequalities, the climate crisis and the perils of unchecked technology.

But I will conclude with this. 

There is more to the myth of Pandora than most people know.

A close reading of the ancient poem reveals that after the horrors escaped, Pandora noticed one thing left inside the box.

As the poet wrote:

“Only Hope remained there.”

There is a lesson in this for our times. 

We must never lose sight of hope.

And we must work to lift the lid on that hope through action.

To make it real. To help it spread.

Sticking to principles.  Speaking the truth.  Never giving up. 

In our 80th year, let’s build the more peaceful, just and prosperous world that we know – despite everything – knowing that it is within reach.

Thank you. 

***
[all-English]

Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen,

Let me begin by wishing you and your families a very happy and healthy 2025.

Dear Excellencies,

Let’s start with the good news.

It is understandable to get overwhelmed by the turmoil of our world. 

But as we look to the year ahead, we must never lose sight of progress and potential.

And there are signs of hope.

Negotiators are in the final stages of a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. 

Meanwhile, the ceasefire in Lebanon is largely holding – and the country was finally able to elect a President after over two years of stalemate.

On the climate front, the world now invests almost twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels.
 
And almost everywhere, solar and wind are now the cheapest sources of new electricity — and the fastest growing in history.

In much of the world, girls have achieved parity in education.
More children are surviving today than ever before.  HIV infections continue to dramatically decline, along with malaria mortality rates.

We have seen meaningful new steps to reduce child marriage, protect our oceans, and expand internet access.

And we begin 2025 lifted by the commitments of the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations. 

These measures are an affirmation of the power and purpose of our United Nations in our eightieth anniversary year.

Through thick and thin, the world has come together through the United Nations to tackle some of the most intractable problems.

Easing tensions.

Forging and keeping peace.

Setting bold goals to fight poverty, hunger, inequality and climate change. 

Seeking accountability for violations of international law, including international human rights law.

Delivering lifesaving aid in the most desperate places on earth.

From day one, the United Nations has represented the global conscience.

In a world seemingly hellbent on destruction, our organization has been a force of construction.

And, every day, we continue to strengthen how we work and deliver.

From bolstering the UN development system on the ground … to achieving gender parity at the highest levels.

We remain restless for reform – striving to be more effective and cost-effective … simplifying procedures and decentralizing decisions … enhancing transparency and accountability … and shifting resources to invest in data, digital, innovation, strategic foresight and behavioral science through our UN 2.0 initiative.
The United Nations reflects a key truth: global problems demand global solutions.

The more the UN does together to address big challenges around the world, the less the burden on individual countries to do it alone.  

Excellencies,

This spirit of hope rooted in action must propel us forward.

Yes, there is progress in our tumultuous world. 

But let’s have no illusions:  this is very much a world in turmoil and grave uncertainty.
 
Our actions — or inactions — have unleashed a modern-day Pandora’s box of ills.

Four of those ills stand out because they represent, at best, threats that could disrupt every aspect of our agenda and, at worst, upend our very existence:

Runaway conflicts. 

Rampant inequalities. 

The raging climate crisis. 

And out-of-control technology.

The good news is that we have the plans to tackle these challenges.  

We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. 

We need to get the wheel moving.
 
Through acceleration and transformation – oriented around the Pact for the Future, the implementation of which will be a central priority in 2025.

Excellencies,
Let’s start with peace.
Conflicts are multiplying, becoming messier and deadlier.

Deepening geo-political divisions and mistrust are adding fuel to the fire.

The nuclear threat is at its highest in decades.

The spectrum of human rights is under constant attack.

Impunity is endemic — with serial violations of international law, international humanitarian law and the UN Charter – and systematic assaults on our very institutions.

In Gaza, we have been relentless in calling for an immediate ceasefire.  The immediate and unconditional release of the hostages.  And immediate action to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of life-saving aid. 

I want to once again salute the backbone of the humanitarian response, our colleagues in UNRWA.

Of course nothing can justify the terror attacks by Hamas on October 7th.

And nothing can justify the dramatic levels of death and destruction inflicted on the Palestinian people. 

For months, there has been no ceiling to the suffering and no bottom to the horrors. 

I strongly appeal to all parties to finalize a ceasefire and hostage release deal sooner rather than later.   

Excellencies,

Across the region, we are seeing a reshaping of the Middle East. 

What is far less clear is what will emerge. 

In Israel and Palestine, will we see irreversible action toward a two-State solution, in line with UN resolutions, international law, and previous agreements — as we have constantly advocated? 

Or will we instead see steady annexation by Israel … the denial of the Palestinian people’s rights and dignity … and the destruction of any chance of sustainable peace?

In Syria, after years of bloodshed, will we see a country that can finally be a beacon of different faiths, traditions and communities shaping an inclusive, free and peaceful future — as we continue to do everything to support?

Or will we see fragmentation, along with the trampling of rights of minorities and women and girls? 

In Iran, will we see concrete actions to ensure a clear renunciation of any nuclear weapons programme … and contributions to a new regional security framework where the sovereignty of every state is respected – allowing for the full integration of Iran into the global economy?  This is what we hope will become possible.

Or will we see escalations with unpredictable consequences?

Throughout the region, we must deny extremists a veto over a peaceful future.

Tonight, I am leaving for Lebanon on a visit of solidarity with the Lebanese people and our peacekeeping forces.

A window has opened for a new era of institutional stability, with a State fully able to protect its citizens, and a system that would allow the tremendous potential of the Lebanese people to flourish.

We will do everything to help keep that window open wide – a window that will allow both Lebanese and Israelis to live in security.

Excellencies,

There is a world of pain beyond the Middle East.

In Ukraine, the war is on the verge of its fourth year.  We must spare no effort for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace, in line with the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions.

In Sudan, the warring parties have triggered widespread bloodshed, the world’s largest displacement crisis and famine.  We are engaging all parties to protect civilians, de-escalate the conflict and find a path to peace.

In the Sahel, we are working with partners for a renewed dialogue to strengthen regional cooperation and address common threats especially terror and violent extremism.

In Haiti, armed criminal gangs continue to run rampant.  At the very least, we must ensure that the Multinational Security Support Mission receives sustainable and predictable funding.

Just as we must for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia.

From Myanmar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Yemen and far beyond, we must keep working for peace.  This is the raison d’etre of the United Nations.

And that includes advancing the Pact for the Future’s commitments:  prioritizing conflict prevention, mediation, conflict resolution and peacebuilding;  continuing to strengthen peacekeeping; the meaningful inclusion of women in political and peace processes; the first multilateral agreement on nuclear disarmament in more than a decade; new strategies to end the use of chemical and biological weapons; vital efforts to prevent an arms race in outer space and advance discussions on the use of lethal autonomous weapons; and an updated understanding of the impact of today’s arms race on sustainable development, the full program coming from the Pact.

Excellencies,

Inequalities are also spreading from the modern-day Pandora’s Box.

Vast inequalities are an unmistakable signal that something is deeply wrong with our social, economic, political and financial systems.

Inequalities can be beaten — if we commit to policies that promote equity rather than clinging to the same failed approaches.

We must do so on several fronts.

It starts by accelerating action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Five years to 2030, less than one-fifth of the targets are on course — aggravated by a $4 trillion annual financing gap.

Acceleration means focusing on high-impact areas like poverty eradication, food security, quality education for all, social protection, universal health coverage, energy access, digitalization and reducing climate impacts.

And we must place a particular focus on the needs of Africa.

Finance is essential.

The Pact for the Future includes clear support for an SDG Stimulus to help close the financing gap.

It calls on donors to meet official development assistance commitments and for the private sector to invest in sustainable development.

And it advocates strong social protection systems, trade that is open and serves as a ladder for countries to grow and develop, and taxation that delivers fairness and broad-based prosperity.

We must also fight inequalities by reforming and modernizing the institutions of global finance to represent today’s economy — not that of 1945.

Developing countries must be represented fairly in the governance of the very institutions they depend on.

We must strengthen the global safety net — and substantially increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks, making them bigger and bolder.

And we must ensure concessional finance is deployed where it is most needed, taking into account vulnerability and not only GDP per capita.

We will step up our calls for meaningful action to help countries in or near debt distress, so that they have more fiscal space to invest in the SDGs.

At the same time, we must strengthen and improve the sovereign debt architecture to enable countries to borrow with confidence, as Agenda 2030 demands. 

I have appointed an expert group to identify practical steps to break out of the morass and galvanize support for action on debt.  

Excellencies,
We have critical opportunities this year to achieve breakthroughs on the SDGs. 
 
From the Conference on Financing for Development … to the World Summit for Social Development … to the G20 Summit under the Presidency of South Africa … to COP 30 in Brazil….to the UN Ocean Conference…to Beijing Plus 30.

Which leads me to another core way we must fight inequalities — by expanding opportunities for women and girls.

The Pact for the Future calls for all countries to achieve full gender equality.

By removing all legal, social and economic barriers.

By targeted and accelerated action to end all forms of violence and harassment against women and girls, including sexual and gender-based violence.

By accelerating investments to close the gender pay gap, including in the care economy.

And by ensuring equal participation and leadership opportunities — from the boardroom, to the halls of political power, to the green and digital economies. 

And we must fight inequalities by standing with young people, everywhere.

The Declaration on Future Generations commits to strengthen the participation of young people in decision-making at the national and global levels.  

We are doing so through our newly established UN Youth Office which is now fully operational.

And the Global Digital Compact calls on nations to champion young innovators, nurture entrepreneurial spirit, and equip the next generation with digital literacy and skills.

Inequalities are also fueled by the scourge of discrimination and hate speech. 

We must work to foster communities of belonging and end the spread of hatred and intolerance – including antisemitism, anti-Muslim bigotry, and discrimination against minority Christian communities.

This is even more crucial as guardrails around social media platforms are being dismantled, allowing disinformation and hate speech to run rampant.

Excellencies,

The Pandora’s Box has also let loose the climate crisis that is ravaging and savaging our world. 

Look no further than the hills of Los Angeles.

It has gone from the home of disaster movies to a scene of disaster.

Who pays the price for climate destruction around the world?

Not the fossil fuel industry pocketing profits and taxpayer subsidies as their products wreak havoc.

Everyday people suffer: with their lives and livelihoods; with higher insurance premiums, volatile energy bills, and higher food prices. 

And particularly the most vulnerable, who have done the least to unleash this devastation.

Before the Paris Agreement, we were on a pathway to over four-degrees of temperature rise by the end of the century.  It is true that we are slowly bending down the curve. 

But every year since Paris has also been among the hottest ever – and last year was the first to push past 1.5 degrees. 

At the same time, we have a huge opportunity before us.  The renewables revolution is unstoppable and everyday people will benefit:

With lower costs of living and better health; energy security, energy sovereignty, good jobs, and millions connected to cheap, accessible power. 

Ten years on from the Paris agreement, 90 per cent of the world has now committed to net zero.

But we must work much harder. 

We need to shift our collective efforts into overdrive and deliver on the goals of the Paris Agreement. 

The math is clear:  Global emissions must peak this year and rapidly decline thereafter if we are to have a sliver of a hope of limiting long-term global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees.

This year, every country has pledged to submit new economy-wide national climate action plans – or NDCs – that align with 1.5 degrees.

These new plans represent a chance to embrace the opportunities of the clean energy era. They must cover all sectors and all greenhouse gases.

Together, they must cut emissions 60 per cent by 2035, compared to 2019 levels, with clear reduction targets for fossil fuel production and consumption. 

And they must show how every country will contribute to the global goals agreed at COP28 – on deforestation, and the energy transition.

The G20 must lead, given the scale of their emissions.

All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. 

We recognize circumstances and capabilities that vary around the globe — but we also recognize that all countries must do more.  

So will the United Nations.

I am working closely with COP30 host, President Lula of Brazil to drive action.

And I am writing to leaders of the largest economies and emitters to encourage them to cooperate and seize this chance.

At the same time, the United Nations system is helping nearly 100 developing countries prepare their new national climate action plans.

And we will convene a special event to take stock of the plans of all countries, push for action to keep 1.5 within reach, and deliver climate justice.

I will also invite businesses, financial institutions, cities, regions and civil society to come with credible 1.5-aligned transition plans, in line with our Integrity Matters report.

To those in business, finance and beyond who remain committed to credible climate action, despite all the pressures we are seeing, I say:

You are on the right side of history.  Keep it up.

And to governments, I say:

Get behind them. Provide the policy and regulatory certainty business needs.

Address barriers to action. Incentivize the green transition.

And accelerate the shift from voluntary pledges to mandatory rules.

Excellencies,

The battle for 1.5 cannot be won without a fast, fair and funded fossil-fuel phase-out worldwide. 

Today, governments around the globe spend nine times more to make fossil fuels cheaper than they do on making clean energy more affordable for consumers.

And barriers – such as high capital costs – are preventing countries from reaping the benefits of the renewables revolution.

We must tear down these walls.

And deliver on climate finance across the board – including through international financial architecture reform.

The COP29 agreement on finance must be implemented in full.

The United Nations will help mobilize support for just energy transitions.

We will help drive the implementation of carbon pricing and the wind-down of fossil fuel subsidies. 

And we will support the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to deliver a credible roadmap to mobilize $1.3 trillion a year as agreed, needed to support climate action in the developing world.

It is time to start implementing new and innovative sources of finance, including holding polluters accountable for the damage they have caused.
 
Developed countries must make good on their promise to double adaptation finance to at least $40 billion a year this year.

We must implement the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All Initiative. 

At the same time, we need a transformation in the world’s approach to loss and damage – with a major boost to the new Fund.

Let’s be clear.  To put it in perspective, the amount pledged to date is less than the recent contract signed by one baseball player in New York City.

Excellencies,

Finally, technology is also racing out of the Pandora’s Box.

Of course, the technological revolution offers unprecedented opportunities.

But it also demands careful stewardship.

We have a historic responsibility to make sure this revolution benefits humanity, not just a privileged few.

The Global Digital Compact provides a roadmap for translating aspirations into action – with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence.

The United Nations must act – rapidly and decisively – in three ways:

First – everyone must have equal access to the latest AI knowledge and insights.

The Compact calls for an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI. 

By pooling expertise across regions and disciplines, this Panel would help bridge knowledge gaps and help every nation make the most informed AI policy decisions.

The Panel has the potential to become the go-to resource, offering clear and impartial analysis of AI capabilities, opportunities, and potential risks.

I urge the General Assembly to establish the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI without delay.

Second – we must foster AI governance that protects human rights while promoting innovation.

The world needs AI that is ethical, safe, and secure.

The Compact calls for a Global Dialogue on AI Governance:

An inclusive space for stakeholders to come together, under the auspices of the UN, to develop and coordinate policies, share best practices, and ensure interoperability.  This would build on existing global initiatives.

Through this Dialogue, we can advance international guardrails that uphold human rights, prevent misuse, and encourage responsible innovation.

We can tackle emerging challenges – from algorithmic bias to data privacy concerns.

And we can foster fair access to AI benchmarks and governance tools, ensuring low-income countries their rightful voice in establishing governance standards.

I urge the General Assembly to initiate the process for the Dialogue to begin this year and continue on a regular basis.

And I look forward to working with Spain and Costa Rica, as co-facilitators, to deliver on these efforts and the Compact’s wider vision on AI governance.

Third – we must support developing countries in leveraging AI for sustainable development.

AI can help reduce poverty, improve healthcare and education, accelerate scientific discovery and drive sustainable growth.

But that requires bridging the global AI divide that is now growing.

I will soon present a report on innovative voluntary financing models and capacity-building initiatives to help the Global South harness AI for the greater good.

To advance all these goals, a new United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies will support Member States, facilitating coordination and action across the UN system and existing mechanisms.

I thank the General Assembly for establishing the Office and I urge you to resource it fully.

Humanity’s hand must be firmly in control of technology.

As AI reshapes our world, every nation must help shape AI.

Together, let’s ensure Artificial Intelligence serves its highest purpose:

Advancing human progress, equality, and dignity. 

Excellencies,

These are the ills from the modern-day Pandora’s box that we must address as a matter of priority:  conflict, inequalities, the climate crisis and the perils of unchecked technology.

But I will conclude with this. 

There is more to the myth of Pandora than most people know.

A close reading of the ancient poem reveals that after the horrors escaped, Pandora noticed one thing left inside the box.

As the poet wrote:

“Only Hope remained there.”

There is a lesson in this for our times. 

We must never lose sight of hope.

And we must work to lift the lid on that hope through action.

To make it real. To help it spread.

Sticking to principles.  Speaking the truth.  Never giving up. 

In our 80th year, let’s build the more peaceful, just and prosperous world that we know – despite everything – knowing that it is within reach.

Thank you. 

***
[all-French]

Excellences,
Mesdames et Messieurs,

Permettez-moi tout d’abord de vous souhaiter, ainsi qu’à vos familles, une très bonne année 2025, pleine de bonheur et de santé.

Excellences,

Commençons par les bonnes nouvelles.

Que nous soyons accablés par la tourmente que traverse le monde est bien compréhensible.

Mais alors que nous regardons devant nous, nous ne devons jamais perdre de vue les progrès et les possibilités qu’offre l’année à venir.

Et il y a quelques lueurs d’espoir.

Les négociations pour un accord de cessez-le-feu et de libération des otages à Gaza sont dans la dernière ligne droite.

Pendant ce temps, le cessez-le-feu au Liban est en grande partie respecté – et le pays a enfin pu élire un Président après plus de deux années dans l’impasse.

Sur le front du climat, le monde investit aujourd’hui presque deux fois plus dans les énergies propres que dans les combustibles fossiles.

Presque partout, l’énergie solaire et l’énergie éolienne sont désormais les sources d’électricité les moins chères et celles qui connaissent la croissance la plus rapide de l’histoire.

Dans une grande partie du monde, la parité entre les filles et les garçons a été atteinte dans le domaine de l’éducation.

Jamais autant d’enfants n’ont survécu. Les infections à VIH continuent de diminuer de façon spectaculaire, de même que les taux de mortalité due au paludisme.

De nouvelles mesures concrètes ont été prises pour faire diminuer le nombre de mariages d’enfants, protéger nos océans et élargir l’accès à Internet.

Nous commençons 2025 portés par les engagements du Pacte pour l’avenir, du Pacte numérique mondial et de la Déclaration sur les générations futures.

Ces mesures sont une affirmation du pouvoir et de la vocation de nos Nations Unies en cette année qui marque notre quatre-vingtième anniversaire.

Contre vents et marées, le monde s’est rassemblé au sein de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour affronter certains des problèmes les plus inextricables.

Pour apaiser les tensions.

Pour forger et maintenir la paix.

Pour fixer des objectifs audacieux afin de lutter contre la pauvreté, la faim, les inégalités et les changements climatiques.

Pour demander des comptes pour les violations du droit international, y compris le droit international en matière de droits humains.

Pour acheminer une aide vitale jusqu’aux endroits du monde où règne le plus profond désespoir.

Depuis le premier jour, l’Organisation représente la conscience mondiale.

Dans un monde qui semble vouloir la destruction, notre Organisation est une force de construction.

Et chaque jour, nous continuons à améliorer notre action et nos résultats.

Qu’il s’agisse du renforcement du système des Nations Unies pour le développement sur le terrain… ou de la réalisation de la parité femmes-hommes au plus haut niveau.

Nous restons avides de réformes – nous nous employons à être plus efficaces et plus efficients… à simplifier les procédures et à décentraliser les décisions… à renforcer la transparence et l’application du principe de responsabilité… et à réorienter les ressources pour investir dans les données, le numérique, l’innovation, la prospective stratégique et les sciences du comportement grâce à l’initiative ONU 2.0.

L’ONU est le reflet d’une vérité essentielle : les problèmes mondiaux exigent des solutions mondiales.

Plus les Nations Unies agissent ensemble pour relever les grands défis partout dans le monde, moins le fardeau qui pèse sur chaque pays est lourd.

Excellences,

C’est cet esprit d’espoir – ancré dans l’action – qui doit nous faire aller de l’avant.

Oui, il y a du progrès dans notre monde tumultueux.

Mais ne nous faisons pas d’illusions : notre monde est réellement en pleine tourmente et en proie à de graves incertitudes.

Nos actions – ou notre inertie – ont ouvert une boîte de Pandore des temps modernes.

Quatre des maux qu’elle contient se singularisent parce qu’ils représentent des menaces qui pourraient, au mieux, désorganiser nos priorités sous tous leurs aspects et, au pire, remettre en cause notre existence même :

Le déchaînement des conflits.

Les inégalités généralisées.

La crise climatique qui fait rage.

Et une technologie qui échappe à tout contrôle.

La bonne nouvelle, c’est que nous avons les plans qui nous permettront de relever ces défis.

Nous n’avons pas besoin de réinventer la roue.

Nous devons la faire tourner.

Grâce à l’accélération et à la transformation – guidés par le Pacte pour l’avenir, dont l’application sera au cœur de nos priorités en 2025.

Mesdames et Messieurs les représentants,

Commençons par la paix.

Les conflits se multiplient, et ils deviennent plus chaotiques et plus meurtriers.

L’aggravation des divisions géopolitiques et la méfiance jettent de l’huile sur le feu.

La menace nucléaire est à son plus haut niveau depuis des décennies.

Les droits humains dans leur ensemble sont constamment pris pour cible.

L’impunité est endémique – marquée par des violations récurrentes du droit international, du droit international humanitaire et de la Charte des Nations Unies, et des attaques systématiques contre nos institutions elles-mêmes.

À Gaza, nous avons sans relâche demandé un cessez-le-feu immédiat. La libération immédiate et sans condition de tous les otages. Et des mesures immédiates pour la protection des civils et l’acheminement de l’aide vitale.

Je tiens à saluer une fois de plus celles et ceux qui sont la colonne vertébrale de la réponse humanitaire – nos collègues de l’UNRWA.

Bien sûr, rien ne peut justifier les attaques terroristes menées par le Hamas le 7 octobre.

Et rien ne peut justifier l’ampleur catastrophique des pertes humaines et des destructions infligées au peuple palestinien.

Depuis des mois, la souffrance est sans limite et l’horreur sans fin.

J’exhorte toutes les parties à finaliser un accord de cessez-le-feu et de libération des otages.

Excellences,

Dans toute la région, nous assistons à un remodelage du Moyen-Orient.

Ce qui en résultera est beaucoup moins clair.

En Israël et en Palestine, verrons-nous une décision irréversible conduisant à une solution des deux États, conformément aux résolutions de l’ONU, au droit international et aux accords antérieurs – comme nous l’avons constamment préconisé ?

Ou bien assisterons-nous plutôt à une annexion continue par Israël… au déni de la des droits et de la dignité du peuple palestinien… et à la destruction de toute chance de paix durable ?

En Syrie, après des années d’effusion de sang, verrons-nous un pays qui peut enfin être un havre pour les différentes confessions, traditions et communautés et façonne un avenir inclusif, libre et pacifique – alors que nous continuons à tout faire en ce sens ?

Ou bien verrons-nous une fragmentation, et les droits des minorités, des femmes et des filles être foulés aux pieds ?

En Iran, verrons-nous des mesures concrètes pour garantir une renonciation claire de tout programme d’armes nucléaires… et des contributions à un nouveau cadre de sécurité régional dans lequel la souveraineté de chaque État est respectée – qui permette la pleine intégration de l’Iran dans l’économie mondiale ? C’est ce que nous espérons voir se réaliser.

Ou verrons-nous une escalade aux conséquences imprévisibles ?

Dans toute la région, nous devons refuser aux extrémistes le droit de veto sur un avenir pacifique.

Ce soir, je me rends au Liban pour exprimer ma solidarité au peuple libanais et à nos forces de maintien de la paix.

Il s’est ouvert une porte permettant d’entrer dans une ère de stabilité institutionnelle, où l’État serait pleinement en mesure de protéger ses citoyens, et où le système permettrait au peuple libanais d’exploiter son énorme potentiel.

Nous ferons tout pour que cette porte reste grande ouverte – une porte qui permettra aux Libanais comme aux Israéliens de vivre en sécurité.

Excellences,

Une grande souffrance afflige également le reste du monde, au-delà du Moyen-Orient.

En Ukraine, la guerre est sur le point d’entrer dans sa quatrième année. Nous ne devons ménager aucun effort pour parvenir à une paix juste, durable et globale, conformément à la Charte des Nations Unies, au droit international et aux résolutions de l’Assemblée générale.

Au Soudan, les parties belligérantes ont provoqué des effusions de sang à grande échelle, la plus grande crise de déplacement au monde et la famine. Nous engageons toutes les parties à protéger les civils, à désamorcer le conflit et à trouver un chemin vers la paix.

Au Sahel, nous œuvrons avec nos partenaires en faveur d’un dialogue renouvelé pour renforcer la coopération régionale et faire face aux menaces communes, y compris l’extrémisme violent et la terreur.

En Haïti, les gangs criminels armés continuent de sévir. Nous devons à tout le moins faire en sorte que la Mission multinationale d’appui à la sécurité bénéficie d’un financement durable et prévisible.

Tout comme nous devons le faire pour la Mission d’appui et de stabilisation de l’Union africaine en Somalie.

Du Myanmar à la République démocratique du Congo et au Yémen, et bien au-delà, nous devons continuer à œuvrer pour la paix.

Et cela implique notamment la promotion des engagements pris dans le Pacte pour l’avenir : donner la priorité à la prévention des conflits, à la médiation, à la résolution des conflits et à la consolidation de la paix ; continuer à renforcer le maintien de la paix ; inclure véritablement les femmes dans les processus politiques et de paix ; conclure le premier accord multilatéral sur le désarmement nucléaire depuis plus d’une décennie ; de nouvelles stratégies pour mettre fin à l’utilisation d’armes chimiques et biologiques ; des mesures essentielles pour prévenir une course aux armements dans l’espace et faire progresser les discussions sur l’utilisation d’armes autonomes létales ; et une véritable compréhension des répercussions sur le développement durable de la course aux armements menée aujourd’hui.

Excellences,

Cette boîte de Pandore moderne propage également les inégalités.

Ces énormes inégalités sont le signe indéniable que quelque chose est profondément rompu dans nos systèmes sociaux, économiques, politiques et financiers.

Il est possible de venir à bout des inégalités — si nous nous engageons à mener des politiques qui favorisent l’équité, au lieu de nous accrocher aux vieilles recettes qui ont tant échoué.

Nous devons agir sur plusieurs fronts.

Il faut d’abord accélérer les efforts pour atteindre les Objectifs de développement durable.

À cinq ans de 2030, moins d’un cinquième des Objectifs sont en bonne voie — une situation aggravée par un déficit de financement annuel de 4000 milliards de dollars.

Accélérer exige de se concentrer sur les domaines à fort impact – comme l’éradication de la pauvreté, la sécurité alimentaire, l’éducation de qualité pour tous, la protection sociale, une couverture sanitaire universelle, l’accès à l’énergie, la transition numérique et la réduction des effets du changement climatique.

Nous devons aussi accorder une attention toute particulière aux besoins de l’Afrique.

Le financement est essentiel.

Le Pacte pour l’Avenir apporte un soutien clair à un Plan de relance des Objectifs de développement durable pour aider à combler l’écart de financement.

Il appelle les donateurs à respecter leurs engagements en matière d’aide publique au développement, et le secteur privé à investir dans le développement durable.

Enfin, le Pacte plaide pour des systèmes solides de protection sociale, des échanges commerciaux ouverts favorisant la croissance et le développement des pays – et une fiscalité au service de l’équité et d’une prospérité partagée.

Nous devons également lutter contre les inégalités en réformant et en modernisant les institutions financières mondiales afin qu’elles reflètent l’économie de notre époque — et non celle de 1945.

Les pays en développement doivent être équitablement représentés dans la gouvernance des institutions dont ils dépendent.

Nous devons renforcer le filet de sécurité mondial – et considérablement accroître la capacité de prêt des banques multilatérales de développement, les rendant ainsi plus grandes et plus audacieuses.

Et nous devons veiller à ce que les financements concessionnels soient octroyés là où ils sont les plus nécessaires, en tenant compte des vulnérabilités et pas seulement du PIB par habitant.

Nous allons multiplier nos appels en faveur d’actions significatives pour aider les pays surendettés ou au bord du surendettement – afin qu’ils disposent d’une plus grande capacité budgétaire pour investir dans les ODD.

Dans le même temps, nous devons renforcer et améliorer l’architecture de la dette souveraine pour permettre aux États d’emprunter en toute confiance, comme l’exige le Programme 2030.

J’ai demandé à un groupe d’experts de proposer des mesures concrètes en vue de sortir de cette impasse et d’impulser un élan d’action sur la dette.

Excellences,

Cette année, nous disposons d’opportunités rares pour réaliser des avancées majeures sur les Objectifs de développement durable.

De la Conférence sur le financement du développement… au Sommet mondial pour le développement social… du Sommet G20 sous la Présidence de l’Afrique du Sud… à la COP 30 au Brésil… à la Conférence de l’ONU sur l’océan… ou encore à Beijing plus 30.

Ce qui m’amène à évoquer un autre moyen essentiel pour combattre les inégalités – le développement des opportunités pour les femmes et les filles.

Le Pacte pour l’Avenir appelle tous les pays à atteindre une pleine égalité entre les genres.

En levant tous les obstacles juridiques, sociaux et économiques.

En prenant des mesures ciblées et rapides pour mettre fin à toute forme de violence et de harcèlement envers les femmes et les filles – y compris les violences sexuelles et sexistes.

En accélérant les investissements pour combler l’écart salarial entre les genres, notamment dans l’économie des soins.

Et en garantissant une participation et des opportunités de leadership égales – que ce soit dans les conseils d’administration, les sphères de pouvoir politique ou encore les secteurs d’économies verte et numérique.

Nous devons aussi lutter contre les inégalités en soutenant la jeunesse, partout dans le monde.

La Déclaration sur les générations futures engage à renforcer la participation des jeunes aux processus décisionnels –– aux niveaux national et mondial.

C’est ce que nous faisons grâce à notre nouveau Bureau des Nations Unies pour la jeunesse, qui est désormais pleinement opérationnel.

Et le Pacte numérique mondial appelle tous les pays à soutenir les jeunes innovateurs, à cultiver l’esprit entrepreneurial et à doter la prochaine génération des connaissances et compétences numériques nécessaires.

Les inégalités sont également alimentées par les fléaux de la discrimination et des discours de haine.

Nous devons œuvrer en faveur de communautés inclusives et mettre fin à la propagation de la haine et de l’intolérance – y compris l’antisémitisme, l’islamophobie, et la discrimination envers les communautés chrétiennes minoritaires.

Cela est d’autant plus important à l’heure où les mécanismes de protection sur les réseaux sociaux sont démantelés – laissant libre cours à la prolifération de la désinformation et des discours haineux.

Mesdames et Messieurs les représentants,

De la boîte de Pandore a aussi surgi la crise climatique qui dévaste et ravage notre monde.

Il suffit de regarder les collines de Los Angeles.

Berceaux des films catastrophes, elles sont devenues une scène de catastrophe.

Mais qui paie le prix de la destruction climatique partout dans le monde ?

Certainement pas le secteur des combustibles fossiles, qui empoche les profits et les subventions des contribuables alors que ses produits causent des dommages considérables.

Ce sont les gens ordinaires qui souffrent : leur vie et leurs moyens de subsistance en pâtissent ; les primes d’assurance augmentent, les cours de l’énergie sont volatiles et les prix alimentaires sont en hausse.

Et ce sont en particulier les plus vulnérables, celles et ceux qui ont le moins contribué au déclenchement de ce désastre.

Avant l’Accord de Paris, nous nous dirigions vers une augmentation des températures de plus de quatre degrés d’ici à la fin du siècle. Il est vrai que nous infléchissons lentement la courbe.

Mais depuis l’adoption de l’Accord de Paris, chaque année a aussi été l’une des plus chaudes jamais enregistrées – et l’an dernier, pour la première fois, nous avons franchi la limite de 1,5 degré.

En même temps, une formidable possibilité s’offre à nous : rien ne peut arrêter la révolution des énergies renouvelables, et les gens ordinaires en profiteront.

Le coût de la vie sera moins élevé et la santé s’améliorera ; la sécurité et la souveraineté énergétiques seront assurées, des emplois de qualité seront créés et des millions de personnes auront accès à une énergie bon marché.

Dix ans après l’Accord de Paris, 90 % des pays du monde se sont maintenant engagés à atteindre l’objectif de zéro émission nette.

Mais nous devons redoubler d’efforts.

Nous devons passer la vitesse supérieure et atteindre collectivement les objectifs de l’Accord de Paris.

Le calcul est simple : les émissions mondiales doivent atteindre leur maximum cette année et diminuer rapidement ensuite si nous voulons avoir le moindre espoir de limiter l’élévation à long terme de la température mondiale à 1,5 degré.

Cette année, chaque pays s’est engagé à présenter pour l’ensemble de l’économie de nouveaux plans d’action nationaux pour le climat, ou contributions déterminées au niveau national, qui cadrent avec l’objectif de 1,5 degré.

Ces nouveaux plans sont l’occasion de tirer parti des possibilités qu’offre l’ère de l’énergie propre. Ils doivent porter sur tous les secteurs et tous les gaz à effet de serre.

Ensemble, ils doivent faire diminuer les émissions de 60 % d’ici à 2035, par rapport aux niveaux de 2019, et fixer des objectifs clairs de réduction de la production et de la consommation de combustibles fossiles.

Ils doivent aussi indiquer comment chaque pays contribuera à la réalisation des objectifs mondiaux convenus à la COP28, concernant la déforestation et la transition énergétique.

Les membres du G20 doivent montrer l’exemple, compte tenu de l’ampleur de leurs émissions.

Tout cela doit être réalisé conformément au principe des responsabilités communes mais différenciées.

Nous savons bien que les circonstances et les capacités varient d’un pays à l’autre, et nous savons également que tous les pays doivent faire davantage.

Et l’Organisation des Nations Unies en fera davantage.

Je travaille en étroite collaboration avec le Président brésilien, M. Lula, dont le pays accueillera la COP30, afin de mobiliser l’action.

Et j’écris aux dirigeants des plus grandes économies, qui sont les plus grandes émettrices, pour les encourager à coopérer et à saisir cette chance.

Parallèlement, le système des Nations Unies aide près d’une centaine de pays en développement à élaborer leurs nouveaux plans d’action nationaux pour le climat.

Et nous tiendrons une réunion spéciale pour faire le point sur les plans d’action de tous les pays, inciter à la mobilisation pour atteindre l’objectif de 1,5 degré, et assurer la justice climatique.

J’inviterai également des entreprises, des institutions financières, des villes, des régions, et des représentants de la société civile à venir avec des plans de transition crédibles, qui cadrent avec l’objectif de 1,5 degré et qui soient conformes à notre rapport intitulé « L’intégrité compte ».

À ceux qui, dans le monde des affaires, de la finance et ailleurs, continuent de se mobiliser en faveur d’une action climatique crédible malgré toutes les pressions, je dis ceci :

Vous êtes du bon côté de l’histoire. Persévérez.

Et aux gouvernements, je dis ceci :

Soutenez-les. Donnez aux entreprises les assurances politiques et réglementaires dont elles ont besoin.

Levez les entraves à l’action. Encouragez la transition écologique.

Et accélérez le passage des engagements pris volontairement à l’établissement de règles obligatoires.

Excellences,

La bataille pour l’objectif de 1,5 degré ne peut être gagnée sans une élimination rapide, juste et assortie de financements des combustibles fossiles dans le monde entier.

Aujourd’hui, les gouvernements du monde entier dépensent neuf fois plus pour rendre les combustibles fossiles moins chers qu’ils ne le font pour rendre l’énergie propre pour abordable pour les consommateurs.

Sans compter que des obstacles, comme les coûts d’investissement élevés, empêchent les pays de récolter les fruits de la révolution des énergies renouvelables.

Nous devons venir à bout de ces obstacles.

Et assurer systématiquement le financement de l’action climatique, y compris au moyen d’une réforme de l’architecture financière internationale.

L’accord de la COP29 sur le financement doit être pleinement appliqué.

L’ONU aidera à mobiliser le soutien en faveur de transitions énergétiques justes.

Nous prêterons main forte à l’application des politiques de tarification du carbone et à la réduction progressive des subventions aux combustibles fossiles.

Et nous soutiendrons le rôle moteur des présidences de la COP29 et de la COP30 pour ce qui est d’établir une feuille de route crédible afin de mobiliser les 1300 milliards de dollars annuels nécessaires pour soutenir l’action climatique dans les pays en développement.

Il est temps de commencer à faire appel à des sources de financement nouvelles et innovantes, y compris en amenant les pollueurs à répondre des dégâts qu’ils ont causés.

Il faut que les pays développés tiennent la promesse qu’ils ont faite de doubler le financement de l’adaptation pour qu’il atteigne au moins 40 milliards de dollars par an à partir de cette année.

Nous devons concrétiser l’initiative Alertes précoces pour tous.

Nous devons aussi transformer l’approche mondiale des pertes et dommages, en donnant un grand coup d’accélérateur au nouveau Fonds.

Pour mettre les choses en perspective, le montant annoncé à ce jour est inférieur à celui du contrat qu’a signé récemment un joueur de baseball à New York.

Excellences,

Enfin, la technologie jaillit elle aussi de la boîte de Pandore.

Certes, la révolution technologique offre des possibilités sans précédent.

Mais elle appelle également une gestion prudente.

Nous avons la responsabilité historique de veiller à ce que cette révolution profite à l’humanité tout entière, et pas seulement à quelques privilégiés.

Le Pacte numérique mondial trace la voie à suivre pour traduire les aspirations en actions, en mettant l’accent sur l’intelligence artificielle.

L’ONU doit agir – rapidement et de manière décisive – de trois manières :

Premièrement, tout le monde doit avoir accès, à égalité, aux connaissances et aux informations les plus récentes concernant l’IA.

Le Pacte prévoit la création d’un groupe scientifique international indépendant sur l’IA.

En rassemblant l’expertise des différentes régions et disciplines, ce groupe contribuerait à combler les lacunes en matière de savoir et aiderait chaque pays à prendre en connaissance de cause des décisions concernant l’IA.

Il pourrait devenir la ressource de référence, en offrant une analyse claire et impartiale de ce dont l’IA est capable, des possibilités qu’elle offre et des risques qu’elle fait courir.

J’exhorte l’Assemblée générale à créer sans attendre le groupe scientifique international indépendant sur l’IA.

Deuxièmement, nous devons promouvoir une gouvernance de l’IA qui protège les droits humains tout en favorisant l’innovation.

Le monde a besoin d’une IA éthique, sûre et sécurisée.

Le Pacte appelle à un dialogue mondial sur la gouvernance de l’IA :

Un espace inclusif permettant aux parties prenantes de se réunir, sous les auspices de l’ONU, afin d’élaborer et de coordonner des politiques, de mettre en commun les meilleures pratiques et d’assurer l’interopérabilité. Cette initiative s’appuierait sur d’autres initiatives mondiales existantes.

Grâce à ce dialogue, nous pourrons mettre en place des garde-fous internationaux visant à faire respecter les droits humains, à empêcher les abus et à encourager l’innovation responsable.

Nous pourrons relever les nouveaux défis, qu’il s’agisse des biais algorithmiques ou de la confidentialité des données.

Et nous pourrons favoriser un accès équitable aux critères de référence et aux outils de gouvernance en matière d’IA, en veillant à ce que les pays à faible revenu aient voix au chapitre dans l’établissement des normes de gouvernance.

J’exhorte l’Assemblée générale à prendre des dispositions pour que le dialogue commence cette année et se poursuive régulièrement.

Et je me réjouis de travailler avec l’Espagne et le Costa Rica, en tant que cofacilitateurs, pour concrétiser ces efforts et, plus généralement, les mesures que le Pacte prévoit concernant la gouvernance de l’IA.

Troisièmement, nous devons aider les pays en développement à mettre l’IA au service du développement durable.

L’IA peut contribuer à réduire la pauvreté, à améliorer les soins de santé et l’éducation, à accélérer les découvertes scientifiques et à favoriser une croissance durable.

Mais pour cela, il faut combler le fossé mondial en matière d’IA.

Je présenterai prochainement un rapport sur les modèles innovants de financement volontaire et les initiatives de renforcement des capacités, afin d’aider les pays du Sud à tirer parti de l’IA pour le bien commun.

Pour atteindre tous ces objectifs, un nouveau Bureau des technologies numériques et émergentes apportera son concours aux États Membres en facilitant la coordination dans le système des Nations Unies et avec les mécanismes existants.

Je remercie l’Assemblée générale d’avoir créé le Bureau et je vous demande instamment de le doter de toutes les ressources nécessaires.

L’humanité doit rester maîtresse de la technologie.

Alors que l’IA transforme notre monde, chaque pays doit contribuer à façonner l’IA.

Ensemble, faisons en sorte que l’intelligence artificielle serve les objectifs les plus nobles :

le progrès, l’égalité et la dignité de tous les êtres humains.

Excellences,

Ce sont là les maux qui emplissent la boîte de Pandore des temps modernes que nous devons affronter en priorité : conflits, inégalités, crise climatique et dangers d’une technologie incontrôlée.

Mais j’aimerais conclure par ceci.

Le mythe de Pandore ne se résume pas à ce qui est connu du plus grand nombre.

Une lecture attentive du poème ancien révèle qu’une fois que les horreurs s’étaient échappées, Pandore remarqua qu’il restait une chose dans la boîte.

Comme l’a écrit le poète :

« Seule resta l’Espérance. »

Il y a là une leçon à tirer pour notre époque.

Jamais nous ne devons perdre espoir.

Et nous nous emploierons à révéler cet espoir au grand jour par l’action.

Pour le réaliser. Pour le répandre.

En défendant nos principes. En disant la vérité. En ne renonçant jamais.

En notre 80e année, bâtissons un monde plus pacifique, plus juste et plus prospère, dont nous savons malgré tout qu’il est à notre portée.

Je vous remercie.

Source: United Nations – English

welcome the announcement of a deal to secure a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza.
 
I commend the mediators — Egypt, Qatar, and the United States of America — for their dedicated efforts in brokering this deal. Their unwavering commitment to finding a diplomatic solution has been critical in achieving this breakthrough. I call on all relevant parties to uphold their commitments and ensure that this deal is fully implemented.

From the outset of the violence, I have called for an immediate ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
 
Our priority must be to ease the tremendous suffering caused by this conflict. The United Nations stands ready to support the implementation of this deal and scale up the delivery of sustained humanitarian relief to the countless Palestinians who continue to suffer. It is imperative that this ceasefire removes the significant security and political obstacles to delivering aid across Gaza so that we can support a major increase in urgent lifesaving humanitarian support. The humanitarian situation is at catastrophic levels.

I call on all parties to facilitate the rapid, unhindered, and safe humanitarian relief for all civilians in need. From our side, we will do whatever is humanly possible, aware of the serious challenges and constraints that we will be facing. We expect our efforts to be matched by other humanitarian actors, the private sector and bilateral initiatives.
 
This deal is a critical first step, but we must mobilize all efforts to also advance broader goals, including the preservation of the unity, contiguity, and integrity of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Palestinian unity is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability, and I emphasize that unified Palestinian governance must remain a top priority.  
 
I urge the parties and all relevant partners to seize this opportunity to establish a credible political path to a better future for Palestinians, Israelis, and the broader region. Ending the occupation and achieving a negotiated two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, in line with international law, relevant UN resolutions, and previous agreements remain an urgent priority. Only through a viable two-state solution can the aspirations of both peoples be fulfilled.

I pay tribute to the civilians who have lost their lives, including UN personnel and humanitarian workers.
 
The United Nations is steadfast in its commitment to supporting all efforts that promote peace, stability, and a more hopeful future for the people of Palestine and Israel, and across the region.

Source: United Nations – English

xcellencies, Ladies and gentlemen,

Let me begin by wishing you and your families a very happy and healthy 2025.

Excellencies,

Let’s start with the good news.

It is understandable to get overwhelmed by the turmoil of our world. 

But as we look to the year ahead, we must never lose sight of progress and potential.

And there are signs of hope.

Negotiators are in the final stages of a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. 

Meanwhile, the ceasefire in Lebanon is largely holding – and the country was finally able to elect a President after over two years of stalemate.

On the climate front, the world now invests almost twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels.
 
And almost everywhere, solar and wind are now the cheapest sources of new electricity — and the fastest growing in history.

In much of the world, girls have achieved parity in education.
More children are surviving today than ever before.  HIV infections continue to dramatically decline, along with malaria mortality rates.

We have seen meaningful new steps to reduce child marriage, protect our oceans, and expand internet access.

And we begin 2025 lifted by the commitments of the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations. 

These measures are an affirmation of the power and purpose of our United Nations in our eightieth anniversary year.

Through thick and thin, the world has come together through the United Nations to tackle some of the most intractable problems.

Easing tensions.

Forging and keeping peace.

Setting bold goals to fight poverty, hunger, inequality and climate change. 

Seeking accountability for violations of international law, including international human rights law.

Delivering lifesaving aid in the most desperate places on earth.

From day one, the United Nations has represented the global conscience.

In a world seemingly hellbent on destruction, our organization has been a force of construction.

And, every day, we continue to strengthen how we work and deliver.

From bolstering the UN development system on the ground … to achieving gender parity at the highest levels.

We remain restless for reform – striving to be more effective and cost-effective … simplifying procedures and decentralizing decisions … enhancing transparency and accountability … and shifting resources to invest in data, digital, innovation, strategic foresight and behavioral science through our UN 2.0 initiative.

The United Nations reflects a key truth: global problems demand global solutions.

The more the UN does together to address big challenges around the world, the less the burden on individual countries to do it alone.  

Excellencies,

This spirit of hope rooted in action must propel us forward.

Yes, there is progress in our tumultuous world. 

But let’s have no illusions:  this is very much a world in turmoil and grave uncertainty.
 
Our actions — or inactions — have unleashed a modern-day Pandora’s box of ills.

Four of those ills stand out because they represent, at best, threats that could disrupt every aspect of our agenda and, at worst, upend our very existence:

Runaway conflicts. 

Rampant inequalities. 

The raging climate crisis. 

And out-of-control technology.

The good news is that we have the plans to tackle these challenges.  

We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. 

We need to get the wheel moving.
 
Through acceleration and transformation – oriented around the Pact for the Future, the implementation of which will be a central priority in 2025.

Excellencies,

Let’s start with peace.

Conflicts are multiplying, becoming messier and deadlier.

Deepening geo-political divisions and mistrust are adding fuel to the fire.
The nuclear threat is at its highest in decades.

The spectrum of human rights is under constant attack.

Impunity is endemic — with serial violations of international law, international humanitarian law and the UN Charter – and systematic assaults on our very institutions.

In Gaza, we have been relentless in calling for an immediate ceasefire.  The immediate and unconditional release of the hostages.  And immediate action to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of life-saving aid. 

I want to once again salute the backbone of the humanitarian response, our colleagues in UNRWA.

Of course nothing can justify the terror attacks by Hamas on October 7th.

And nothing can justify the dramatic levels of death and destruction inflicted on the Palestinian people. 

For months, there has been no ceiling to the suffering and no bottom to the horrors. 

I strongly appeal to all parties to finalize a ceasefire and hostage release deal sooner rather than later. 

Excellencies,

Across the region, we are seeing a reshaping of the Middle East. 

What is far less clear is what will emerge. 

In Israel and Palestine, will we see irreversible action toward a two-State solution, in line with UN resolutions, international law, and previous agreements — as we have constantly advocated? 

Or will we instead see steady annexation by Israel … the denial of the Palestinian people’s rights and dignity … and the destruction of any chance of sustainable peace?

In Syria, after years of bloodshed, will we see a country that can finally be a beacon of different faiths, traditions and communities shaping an inclusive, free and peaceful future — as we continue to do everything to support?

Or will we see fragmentation, along with the trampling of rights of minorities and women and girls? 

In Iran, will we see concrete actions to ensure a clear renunciation of any nuclear weapons programme … and contributions to a new regional security framework where the sovereignty of every state is respected – allowing for the full integration of Iran into the global economy?  This is what we hope will become possible.

Or will we see escalations with unpredictable consequences?

Throughout the region, we must deny extremists a veto over a peaceful future.

Tonight, I am leaving for Lebanon on a visit of solidarity with the Lebanese people and our peacekeeping forces.

A window has opened for a new era of institutional stability, with a State fully able to protect its citizens, and a system that would allow the tremendous potential of the Lebanese people to flourish.

We will do everything to help keep that window open wide – a window that will allow both Lebanese and Israelis to live in security.

Excellencies,

There is a world of pain beyond the Middle East.

In Ukraine, the war is on the verge of its fourth year.  We must spare no effort for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace, in line with the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions.

In Sudan, the warring parties have triggered widespread bloodshed, the world’s largest displacement crisis and famine.  We are engaging all parties to protect civilians, de-escalate the conflict and find a path to peace.

In the Sahel, we are working with partners for a renewed dialogue to strengthen regional cooperation and to address common threats especially terror and violent extremism.

In Haiti, armed criminal gangs continue to run rampant.  At the very least, we must ensure that the Multinational Security Support Mission receives sustainable and predictable funding.

Just as we must for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia.

From Myanmar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Yemen and far beyond, we must keep working for peace.  This is the raison d’etre of the United Nations. 

And that includes advancing the Pact for the Future’s commitments:  prioritizing conflict prevention, mediation, conflict resolution and peacebuilding;  continuing to strengthen peacekeeping; the meaningful inclusion of women in political and peace processes; the first multilateral agreement on nuclear disarmament in more than a decade; new strategies to end the use of chemical and biological weapons; vital efforts to prevent an arms race in outer space and advance discussions on the use of lethal autonomous weapons; and an updated understanding of the impact of today’s arms race on sustainable development, the full program coming from the Pact.    

Excellences,

Cette boîte de Pandore moderne propage également les inégalités.

Ces énormes inégalités sont le signe indéniable que quelque chose est profondément rompu dans nos systèmes sociaux, économiques, politiques et financiers.

Il est possible de venir à bout des inégalités — si nous nous engageons à mener des politiques qui favorisent l’équité, au lieu de nous accrocher aux vieilles recettes qui ont tant échoué.

Nous devons agir sur plusieurs fronts.

Il faut d’abord accélérer les efforts pour atteindre les Objectifs de développement durable.

À cinq ans de 2030, moins d’un cinquième des Objectifs sont en bonne voie — une situation aggravée par un déficit de financement annuel de 4000 milliards de dollars.

Accélérer exige de se concentrer sur les domaines à fort impact – comme l’éradication de la pauvreté, la sécurité alimentaire, l’éducation de qualité pour tous, la protection sociale, une couverture sanitaire universelle, l’accès à l’énergie, la transition numérique et la réduction des effets du changement climatique.

Nous devons aussi accorder une attention toute particulière aux besoins de l’Afrique.
Le financement est ici essentiel.

Le Pacte pour l’Avenir apporte un soutien clair à un Plan de relance des Objectifs de développement durable pour aider à combler l’écart de financement.

Il appelle les donateurs à respecter leurs engagements en matière d’aide publique au développement, et le secteur privé à investir dans le développement durable du monde en développement.

Enfin, le Pacte plaide pour des systèmes solides de protection sociale, des échanges commerciaux ouverts favorisant la croissance et le développement des pays – et une fiscalité au service de l’équité et d’une prospérité partagée.

Nous devons également lutter contre les inégalités en réformant et en modernisant les institutions financières mondiales afin qu’elles reflètent l’économie de notre époque — et non celle de 1945.

Les pays en développement doivent être équitablement représentés dans la gouvernance des institutions dont ils dépendent.

Nous devons renforcer le filet de sécurité mondial – et considérablement accroître la capacité des banques multilatérales de développement, les rendant ainsi plus grandes et plus audacieuses.
 
Et nous devons veiller à ce que les financements concessionnels soient octroyés là où ils sont les plus nécessaires, en tenant compte des vulnérabilités et pas seulement du PIB par habitant.
 
Nous allons multiplier nos appels en faveur d’actions significatives pour aider les pays surendettés ou au bord du surendettement – afin qu’ils disposent d’une plus grande capacité budgétaire pour investir dans les ODD.
 
Dans le même temps, nous devons renforcer et améliorer l’architecture de la dette souveraine pour permettre aux États d’emprunter en toute confiance, comme l’exige le Programme 2030.
 
J’ai demandé à un groupe d’experts de proposer des mesures concrètes en vue de sortir de cette impasse et d’impulser un élan d’action sur la dette.
 
Excellences,
 
Cette année, nous disposons d’opportunités rares pour réaliser des avancées majeures sur les Objectifs de développement durable.
 
De la Conférence sur le financement du développement… au Sommet mondial pour le développement social… du Sommet G20 sous la Présidence de l’Afrique du Sud… à la COP 30 au Brésil… à la Conférence de l’ONU sur l’océan… ou encore à Beijing plus 30.
 
Ce qui m’amène à évoquer un autre moyen essentiel pour combattre les inégalités – le développement des opportunités pour les femmes et les filles.
 Le Pacte pour l’Avenir appelle tous les pays à atteindre une pleine égalité entre les genres.
 
En levant tous les obstacles juridiques, sociaux et économiques.
 
En prenant des mesures ciblées et rapides pour mettre fin à toute forme de violence et de harcèlement envers les femmes et les filles – y compris les violences sexuelles et sexistes.
 
En accélérant les investissements pour combler l’écart salarial entre les genres, notamment dans l’économie des soins.

Et en garantissant une participation et des opportunités de leadership égales – que ce soit dans les conseils d’administration, les sphères de pouvoir politique ou encore les secteurs d’économies verte et numérique.
 
Nous devons aussi lutter contre les inégalités en soutenant la jeunesse, partout dans le monde.
 
La Déclaration sur les générations futures engage à renforcer la participation des jeunes aux processus décisionnels –– aux niveaux national et mondial.
 
C’est ce que nous faisons grâce à notre nouveau Bureau des Nations Unies pour la jeunesse, qui est désormais pleinement opérationnel.
 
Et le Pacte numérique mondial appelle tous les pays à soutenir les jeunes innovateurs, à cultiver l’esprit entrepreneurial et à doter la prochaine génération des connaissances et compétences numériques nécessaires.
 
Les inégalités sont également alimentées par les fléaux de la discrimination et des discours de haine.
 
Nous devons œuvrer en faveur de communautés inclusives et mettre fin à la propagation de la haine et de l’intolérance – y compris l’antisémitisme, l’islamophobie, et la discrimination envers les communautés chrétiennes minoritaires.
 
Cela est d’autant plus important à l’heure où les mécanismes de protection sur les réseaux sociaux sont démantelés – laissant libre cours à la prolifération de la désinformation et des discours haineux.

Excellencies,

The Pandora’s Box has also let loose the climate crisis that is ravaging and savaging our world. 

Look no further than the hills of Los Angeles.

It has gone from the home of disaster movies to a scene of disaster.

Who pays the price for climate destruction around the world?
Not the fossil fuel industry pocketing profits and taxpayer subsidies as their products wreak havoc.

Everyday people suffer: with their lives and livelihoods; with higher insurance premiums, volatile energy bills, and higher food prices. 

And particularly the most vulnerable, who have done the least to unleash this devastation.

Before the Paris Agreement, we were on a pathway to over four-degrees of temperature rise by the end of the century.  It is true that we are slowly bending down the curve. 

But every year since Paris has also been among the hottest ever – and last year was the first to push past 1.5 degrees. 

At the same time, we have a huge opportunity before us.  The renewables revolution is unstoppable and everyday people will benefit:

With lower costs of living and better health; energy security, energy sovereignty, good jobs, and millions connected to cheap, accessible power. 

Ten years on from the Paris agreement, 90 per cent of the world has now committed to net zero.

But we must work much harder. 

We need to shift our collective efforts into overdrive and deliver on the goals of the Paris Agreement. 

The math is clear: Global emissions must peak this year and rapidly decline thereafter if we are to have a sliver of a hope of limiting long-term global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees.

This year, every country has pledged to submit new economy-wide national climate action plans – or NDCs – that align with 1.5 degrees.

These new plans represent a chance to embrace the opportunities of the clean energy era.  They must cover all sectors and all greenhouse gases.

Together, they must cut emissions 60 per cent by 2035, compared to 2019 levels, with clear reduction targets for fossil fuel production and consumption. 

And they must show how every country will contribute to the global goals agreed at COP28 – on deforestation, and the energy transition.

The G20 must lead, given the scale of their emissions.

All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. 

We recognize circumstances and capabilities that vary around the globe — but we also recognize that all countries must do more.  

So will the United Nations.

I am working closely with COP30 host, President Lula of Brazil to drive action.

And I am writing to leaders of the largest economies and emitters to encourage them to cooperate and seize this chance.

At the same time, the United Nations system is helping nearly 100 developing countries prepare their new national climate action plans.

And we will convene a special event to take stock of the plans of all countries, push for action to keep 1.5 within reach, and deliver climate justice.

I will also invite businesses, financial institutions, cities, regions and civil society to come with credible 1.5-aligned transition plans, in line with our Integrity Matters report.

To those in business, finance and beyond who remain committed to credible climate action, despite all the pressures we are seeing, I say:

You are on the right side of history.  Keep it up.

And to governments, I say:

Get behind them. Provide the policy and regulatory certainty business needs.

Address barriers to action. Incentivize the green transition.

And accelerate the shift from voluntary pledges to mandatory rules.
Excellencies,

The battle for 1.5 cannot be won without a fast, fair and funded fossil-fuel phase-out worldwide. 

Today, governments around the globe spend nine times more to make fossil fuels cheaper than they do on making clean energy more affordable for consumers.

And barriers – such as high capital costs – are preventing countries from reaping the benefits of the renewables revolution.

We must tear down these walls.

And deliver on climate finance across the board – including through international financial architecture reform.

The COP29 agreement on finance must be implemented in full.

The United Nations will help mobilize support for just energy transitions.

We will help drive the implementation of carbon pricing and the wind-down of fossil fuel subsidies. 

And we will support the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to deliver a credible roadmap to mobilize $1.3 trillion a year as agreed, needed to support climate action in the developing world.

It is time to start implementing new and innovative sources of finance, including holding polluters accountable for the damage they have caused. 

Developed countries must make good on their promise to double adaptation finance to at least $40 billion a year this year.

We must implement the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All Initiative. 

At the same time, we need a transformation in the world’s approach to loss and damage – with a major boost to the new Fund.

Let’s be clear.  To put it in perspective, the amount pledged to date is less than the recent contract signed by one baseball player in New York City.
Excellencies,

Finally, technology is also racing out of the Pandora’s Box.

Of course, the technological revolution offers unprecedented opportunities.

But it also demands careful stewardship.

We have a historic responsibility to make sure this revolution benefits humanity, not just a privileged few.

The Global Digital Compact provides a roadmap for translating aspirations into action – with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence.

The United Nations must act – rapidly and decisively – in three ways:

First – everyone must have equal access to the latest AI knowledge and insights.

The Compact calls for an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI. 

By pooling expertise across regions and disciplines, this Panel would help bridge knowledge gaps and help every nation make the most informed AI policy decisions.
The Panel has the potential to become the go-to resource, offering clear and impartial analysis of AI capabilities, opportunities, and potential risks.

I urge the General Assembly to establish the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI without delay.

Second – we must foster AI governance that protects human rights while promoting innovation.

The world needs AI that is ethical, safe, and secure.

The Compact calls for a Global Dialogue on AI Governance:

An inclusive space for stakeholders to come together, under the auspices of the UN, to develop and coordinate policies, share best practices, and ensure interoperability.  This would build on existing global initiatives.
Through this Dialogue, we can advance international guardrails that uphold human rights, prevent misuse, and encourage responsible innovation.

We can tackle emerging challenges – from algorithmic bias to data privacy concerns.

And we can foster fair access to AI benchmarks and governance tools, ensuring low-income countries their rightful voice in establishing governance standards.

I urge the General Assembly to initiate the process for the Dialogue to begin this year and continue on a regular basis.

And I look forward to working with Spain and Costa Rica, as co-facilitators, to deliver on these efforts and the Compact’s wider vision on AI governance.

Third – we must support developing countries in leveraging AI for sustainable development.

AI can help reduce poverty, improve healthcare and education, accelerate scientific discovery and drive sustainable growth.

But that requires bridging the global AI divide that is now growing.

I will soon present a report on innovative voluntary financing models and capacity-building initiatives to help the Global South harness AI for the greater good.

To advance all these goals, a new United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies will support Member States, facilitating coordination and action across the UN system and existing mechanisms.

I thank the General Assembly for establishing the Office and I urge you to resource it fully.

Humanity’s hand must be firmly in control of technology.
As AI reshapes our world, every nation must help shape AI.

Together, let’s ensure Artificial Intelligence serves its highest purpose:

Advancing human progress, equality, and dignity. 
Excellencies,

These are the ills from the modern-day Pandora’s box that we must address as a matter of priority:  conflict, inequalities, the climate crisis and the perils of unchecked technology.

But I will conclude with this. 

There is more to the myth of Pandora than most people know.

A close reading of the ancient poem reveals that after the horrors escaped, Pandora noticed one thing left inside the box.

As the poet wrote:

“Only Hope remained there.”

There is a lesson in this for our times. 

We must never lose sight of hope.

And we must work to lift the lid on that hope through action.

To make it real. To help it spread.

Sticking to principles.  Speaking the truth.  Never giving up. 

In our 80th year, let’s build the more peaceful, just and prosperous world that we know – despite everything – knowing that it is within reach.

Thank you. 

***
[all-English]

Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen,

Let me begin by wishing you and your families a very happy and healthy 2025.

Dear Excellencies,

Let’s start with the good news.

It is understandable to get overwhelmed by the turmoil of our world. 

But as we look to the year ahead, we must never lose sight of progress and potential.

And there are signs of hope.

Negotiators are in the final stages of a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. 

Meanwhile, the ceasefire in Lebanon is largely holding – and the country was finally able to elect a President after over two years of stalemate.

On the climate front, the world now invests almost twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels.
 
And almost everywhere, solar and wind are now the cheapest sources of new electricity — and the fastest growing in history.

In much of the world, girls have achieved parity in education.
More children are surviving today than ever before.  HIV infections continue to dramatically decline, along with malaria mortality rates.

We have seen meaningful new steps to reduce child marriage, protect our oceans, and expand internet access.

And we begin 2025 lifted by the commitments of the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations. 

These measures are an affirmation of the power and purpose of our United Nations in our eightieth anniversary year.

Through thick and thin, the world has come together through the United Nations to tackle some of the most intractable problems.

Easing tensions.

Forging and keeping peace.

Setting bold goals to fight poverty, hunger, inequality and climate change. 

Seeking accountability for violations of international law, including international human rights law.

Delivering lifesaving aid in the most desperate places on earth.

From day one, the United Nations has represented the global conscience.

In a world seemingly hellbent on destruction, our organization has been a force of construction.

And, every day, we continue to strengthen how we work and deliver.

From bolstering the UN development system on the ground … to achieving gender parity at the highest levels.

We remain restless for reform – striving to be more effective and cost-effective … simplifying procedures and decentralizing decisions … enhancing transparency and accountability … and shifting resources to invest in data, digital, innovation, strategic foresight and behavioral science through our UN 2.0 initiative.
The United Nations reflects a key truth: global problems demand global solutions.

The more the UN does together to address big challenges around the world, the less the burden on individual countries to do it alone.  

Excellencies,

This spirit of hope rooted in action must propel us forward.

Yes, there is progress in our tumultuous world. 

But let’s have no illusions:  this is very much a world in turmoil and grave uncertainty.
 
Our actions — or inactions — have unleashed a modern-day Pandora’s box of ills.

Four of those ills stand out because they represent, at best, threats that could disrupt every aspect of our agenda and, at worst, upend our very existence:

Runaway conflicts. 

Rampant inequalities. 

The raging climate crisis. 

And out-of-control technology.

The good news is that we have the plans to tackle these challenges.  

We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. 

We need to get the wheel moving.
 
Through acceleration and transformation – oriented around the Pact for the Future, the implementation of which will be a central priority in 2025.

Excellencies,
Let’s start with peace.
Conflicts are multiplying, becoming messier and deadlier.

Deepening geo-political divisions and mistrust are adding fuel to the fire.

The nuclear threat is at its highest in decades.

The spectrum of human rights is under constant attack.

Impunity is endemic — with serial violations of international law, international humanitarian law and the UN Charter – and systematic assaults on our very institutions.

In Gaza, we have been relentless in calling for an immediate ceasefire.  The immediate and unconditional release of the hostages.  And immediate action to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of life-saving aid. 

I want to once again salute the backbone of the humanitarian response, our colleagues in UNRWA.

Of course nothing can justify the terror attacks by Hamas on October 7th.

And nothing can justify the dramatic levels of death and destruction inflicted on the Palestinian people. 

For months, there has been no ceiling to the suffering and no bottom to the horrors. 

I strongly appeal to all parties to finalize a ceasefire and hostage release deal sooner rather than later.   

Excellencies,

Across the region, we are seeing a reshaping of the Middle East. 

What is far less clear is what will emerge. 

In Israel and Palestine, will we see irreversible action toward a two-State solution, in line with UN resolutions, international law, and previous agreements — as we have constantly advocated? 

Or will we instead see steady annexation by Israel … the denial of the Palestinian people’s rights and dignity … and the destruction of any chance of sustainable peace?

In Syria, after years of bloodshed, will we see a country that can finally be a beacon of different faiths, traditions and communities shaping an inclusive, free and peaceful future — as we continue to do everything to support?

Or will we see fragmentation, along with the trampling of rights of minorities and women and girls? 

In Iran, will we see concrete actions to ensure a clear renunciation of any nuclear weapons programme … and contributions to a new regional security framework where the sovereignty of every state is respected – allowing for the full integration of Iran into the global economy?  This is what we hope will become possible.

Or will we see escalations with unpredictable consequences?

Throughout the region, we must deny extremists a veto over a peaceful future.

Tonight, I am leaving for Lebanon on a visit of solidarity with the Lebanese people and our peacekeeping forces.

A window has opened for a new era of institutional stability, with a State fully able to protect its citizens, and a system that would allow the tremendous potential of the Lebanese people to flourish.

We will do everything to help keep that window open wide – a window that will allow both Lebanese and Israelis to live in security.

Excellencies,

There is a world of pain beyond the Middle East.

In Ukraine, the war is on the verge of its fourth year.  We must spare no effort for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace, in line with the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions.

In Sudan, the warring parties have triggered widespread bloodshed, the world’s largest displacement crisis and famine.  We are engaging all parties to protect civilians, de-escalate the conflict and find a path to peace.

In the Sahel, we are working with partners for a renewed dialogue to strengthen regional cooperation and address common threats especially terror and violent extremism.

In Haiti, armed criminal gangs continue to run rampant.  At the very least, we must ensure that the Multinational Security Support Mission receives sustainable and predictable funding.

Just as we must for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia.

From Myanmar to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Yemen and far beyond, we must keep working for peace.  This is the raison d’etre of the United Nations.

And that includes advancing the Pact for the Future’s commitments:  prioritizing conflict prevention, mediation, conflict resolution and peacebuilding;  continuing to strengthen peacekeeping; the meaningful inclusion of women in political and peace processes; the first multilateral agreement on nuclear disarmament in more than a decade; new strategies to end the use of chemical and biological weapons; vital efforts to prevent an arms race in outer space and advance discussions on the use of lethal autonomous weapons; and an updated understanding of the impact of today’s arms race on sustainable development, the full program coming from the Pact.

Excellencies,

Inequalities are also spreading from the modern-day Pandora’s Box.

Vast inequalities are an unmistakable signal that something is deeply wrong with our social, economic, political and financial systems.

Inequalities can be beaten — if we commit to policies that promote equity rather than clinging to the same failed approaches.

We must do so on several fronts.

It starts by accelerating action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Five years to 2030, less than one-fifth of the targets are on course — aggravated by a $4 trillion annual financing gap.

Acceleration means focusing on high-impact areas like poverty eradication, food security, quality education for all, social protection, universal health coverage, energy access, digitalization and reducing climate impacts.

And we must place a particular focus on the needs of Africa.

Finance is essential.

The Pact for the Future includes clear support for an SDG Stimulus to help close the financing gap.

It calls on donors to meet official development assistance commitments and for the private sector to invest in sustainable development.

And it advocates strong social protection systems, trade that is open and serves as a ladder for countries to grow and develop, and taxation that delivers fairness and broad-based prosperity.

We must also fight inequalities by reforming and modernizing the institutions of global finance to represent today’s economy — not that of 1945.

Developing countries must be represented fairly in the governance of the very institutions they depend on.

We must strengthen the global safety net — and substantially increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks, making them bigger and bolder.

And we must ensure concessional finance is deployed where it is most needed, taking into account vulnerability and not only GDP per capita.

We will step up our calls for meaningful action to help countries in or near debt distress, so that they have more fiscal space to invest in the SDGs.

At the same time, we must strengthen and improve the sovereign debt architecture to enable countries to borrow with confidence, as Agenda 2030 demands. 

I have appointed an expert group to identify practical steps to break out of the morass and galvanize support for action on debt.  

Excellencies,
We have critical opportunities this year to achieve breakthroughs on the SDGs. 
 
From the Conference on Financing for Development … to the World Summit for Social Development … to the G20 Summit under the Presidency of South Africa … to COP 30 in Brazil….to the UN Ocean Conference…to Beijing Plus 30.

Which leads me to another core way we must fight inequalities — by expanding opportunities for women and girls.

The Pact for the Future calls for all countries to achieve full gender equality.

By removing all legal, social and economic barriers.

By targeted and accelerated action to end all forms of violence and harassment against women and girls, including sexual and gender-based violence.

By accelerating investments to close the gender pay gap, including in the care economy.

And by ensuring equal participation and leadership opportunities — from the boardroom, to the halls of political power, to the green and digital economies. 

And we must fight inequalities by standing with young people, everywhere.

The Declaration on Future Generations commits to strengthen the participation of young people in decision-making at the national and global levels.  

We are doing so through our newly established UN Youth Office which is now fully operational.

And the Global Digital Compact calls on nations to champion young innovators, nurture entrepreneurial spirit, and equip the next generation with digital literacy and skills.

Inequalities are also fueled by the scourge of discrimination and hate speech. 

We must work to foster communities of belonging and end the spread of hatred and intolerance – including antisemitism, anti-Muslim bigotry, and discrimination against minority Christian communities.

This is even more crucial as guardrails around social media platforms are being dismantled, allowing disinformation and hate speech to run rampant.

Excellencies,

The Pandora’s Box has also let loose the climate crisis that is ravaging and savaging our world. 

Look no further than the hills of Los Angeles.

It has gone from the home of disaster movies to a scene of disaster.

Who pays the price for climate destruction around the world?

Not the fossil fuel industry pocketing profits and taxpayer subsidies as their products wreak havoc.

Everyday people suffer: with their lives and livelihoods; with higher insurance premiums, volatile energy bills, and higher food prices. 

And particularly the most vulnerable, who have done the least to unleash this devastation.

Before the Paris Agreement, we were on a pathway to over four-degrees of temperature rise by the end of the century.  It is true that we are slowly bending down the curve. 

But every year since Paris has also been among the hottest ever – and last year was the first to push past 1.5 degrees. 

At the same time, we have a huge opportunity before us.  The renewables revolution is unstoppable and everyday people will benefit:

With lower costs of living and better health; energy security, energy sovereignty, good jobs, and millions connected to cheap, accessible power. 

Ten years on from the Paris agreement, 90 per cent of the world has now committed to net zero.

But we must work much harder. 

We need to shift our collective efforts into overdrive and deliver on the goals of the Paris Agreement. 

The math is clear:  Global emissions must peak this year and rapidly decline thereafter if we are to have a sliver of a hope of limiting long-term global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees.

This year, every country has pledged to submit new economy-wide national climate action plans – or NDCs – that align with 1.5 degrees.

These new plans represent a chance to embrace the opportunities of the clean energy era. They must cover all sectors and all greenhouse gases.

Together, they must cut emissions 60 per cent by 2035, compared to 2019 levels, with clear reduction targets for fossil fuel production and consumption. 

And they must show how every country will contribute to the global goals agreed at COP28 – on deforestation, and the energy transition.

The G20 must lead, given the scale of their emissions.

All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. 

We recognize circumstances and capabilities that vary around the globe — but we also recognize that all countries must do more.  

So will the United Nations.

I am working closely with COP30 host, President Lula of Brazil to drive action.

And I am writing to leaders of the largest economies and emitters to encourage them to cooperate and seize this chance.

At the same time, the United Nations system is helping nearly 100 developing countries prepare their new national climate action plans.

And we will convene a special event to take stock of the plans of all countries, push for action to keep 1.5 within reach, and deliver climate justice.

I will also invite businesses, financial institutions, cities, regions and civil society to come with credible 1.5-aligned transition plans, in line with our Integrity Matters report.

To those in business, finance and beyond who remain committed to credible climate action, despite all the pressures we are seeing, I say:

You are on the right side of history.  Keep it up.

And to governments, I say:

Get behind them. Provide the policy and regulatory certainty business needs.

Address barriers to action. Incentivize the green transition.

And accelerate the shift from voluntary pledges to mandatory rules.

Excellencies,

The battle for 1.5 cannot be won without a fast, fair and funded fossil-fuel phase-out worldwide. 

Today, governments around the globe spend nine times more to make fossil fuels cheaper than they do on making clean energy more affordable for consumers.

And barriers – such as high capital costs – are preventing countries from reaping the benefits of the renewables revolution.

We must tear down these walls.

And deliver on climate finance across the board – including through international financial architecture reform.

The COP29 agreement on finance must be implemented in full.

The United Nations will help mobilize support for just energy transitions.

We will help drive the implementation of carbon pricing and the wind-down of fossil fuel subsidies. 

And we will support the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to deliver a credible roadmap to mobilize $1.3 trillion a year as agreed, needed to support climate action in the developing world.

It is time to start implementing new and innovative sources of finance, including holding polluters accountable for the damage they have caused.
 
Developed countries must make good on their promise to double adaptation finance to at least $40 billion a year this year.

We must implement the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All Initiative. 

At the same time, we need a transformation in the world’s approach to loss and damage – with a major boost to the new Fund.

Let’s be clear.  To put it in perspective, the amount pledged to date is less than the recent contract signed by one baseball player in New York City.

Excellencies,

Finally, technology is also racing out of the Pandora’s Box.

Of course, the technological revolution offers unprecedented opportunities.

But it also demands careful stewardship.

We have a historic responsibility to make sure this revolution benefits humanity, not just a privileged few.

The Global Digital Compact provides a roadmap for translating aspirations into action – with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence.

The United Nations must act – rapidly and decisively – in three ways:

First – everyone must have equal access to the latest AI knowledge and insights.

The Compact calls for an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI. 

By pooling expertise across regions and disciplines, this Panel would help bridge knowledge gaps and help every nation make the most informed AI policy decisions.

The Panel has the potential to become the go-to resource, offering clear and impartial analysis of AI capabilities, opportunities, and potential risks.

I urge the General Assembly to establish the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI without delay.

Second – we must foster AI governance that protects human rights while promoting innovation.

The world needs AI that is ethical, safe, and secure.

The Compact calls for a Global Dialogue on AI Governance:

An inclusive space for stakeholders to come together, under the auspices of the UN, to develop and coordinate policies, share best practices, and ensure interoperability.  This would build on existing global initiatives.

Through this Dialogue, we can advance international guardrails that uphold human rights, prevent misuse, and encourage responsible innovation.

We can tackle emerging challenges – from algorithmic bias to data privacy concerns.

And we can foster fair access to AI benchmarks and governance tools, ensuring low-income countries their rightful voice in establishing governance standards.

I urge the General Assembly to initiate the process for the Dialogue to begin this year and continue on a regular basis.

And I look forward to working with Spain and Costa Rica, as co-facilitators, to deliver on these efforts and the Compact’s wider vision on AI governance.

Third – we must support developing countries in leveraging AI for sustainable development.

AI can help reduce poverty, improve healthcare and education, accelerate scientific discovery and drive sustainable growth.

But that requires bridging the global AI divide that is now growing.

I will soon present a report on innovative voluntary financing models and capacity-building initiatives to help the Global South harness AI for the greater good.

To advance all these goals, a new United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies will support Member States, facilitating coordination and action across the UN system and existing mechanisms.

I thank the General Assembly for establishing the Office and I urge you to resource it fully.

Humanity’s hand must be firmly in control of technology.

As AI reshapes our world, every nation must help shape AI.

Together, let’s ensure Artificial Intelligence serves its highest purpose:

Advancing human progress, equality, and dignity. 

Excellencies,

These are the ills from the modern-day Pandora’s box that we must address as a matter of priority:  conflict, inequalities, the climate crisis and the perils of unchecked technology.

But I will conclude with this. 

There is more to the myth of Pandora than most people know.

A close reading of the ancient poem reveals that after the horrors escaped, Pandora noticed one thing left inside the box.

As the poet wrote:

“Only Hope remained there.”

There is a lesson in this for our times. 

We must never lose sight of hope.

And we must work to lift the lid on that hope through action.

To make it real. To help it spread.

Sticking to principles.  Speaking the truth.  Never giving up. 

In our 80th year, let’s build the more peaceful, just and prosperous world that we know – despite everything – knowing that it is within reach.

Thank you. 

Source: United Nations – English

strong>Download the video: https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+9+Dec+24/3320793_MSG+SG+50TH+ANNIV+09+DEC+24.mp4

This year we mark a historic milestone: 50 years of the United Nations University.

For half a century, university leaders, staff, students, and alumni have driven peace and progress.

By bridging the worlds of education, research and policy.

By acting as a trusted source for evidence-based policymaking.

And by uniting the world through knowledge partnerships to address our most pressing global challenges.

The United Nations University is truly multilateralism in action.
 
Now is the time to look ahead at the next 50 years. And to build a future of prosperity and equality for all humanity. 

I look forward to UNU’s continued success and commitment in this essential work.   

Source: United Nations – English

xcellencies, distinguished delegates,  
 
I commend Uganda’s stewardship of the G77 and China over the last year.
 
And I congratulate Iraq as it assumes the Chairmanship for 2025.
 
Iraq was a founding member of the G77 60 years ago.
 
And I welcome your focus on accelerating support for developing countries, especially as we approach the deadline for the 2030 Agenda.
 
This vision cuts to the heart of your group’s purpose and function.  
 
As a voice of justice for developing countries.
 
As champions of equality, poverty eradication and the Sustainable Development Goals.
 
As strong supporters of our reform efforts to advance gender parity, focus on country-level results, and improve the effectiveness of our work.
 
As a constant wellspring of ideas to revitalize key UN bodies — including the committees of the General Assembly and ECOSOC.
 
And — always — as keepers of the flame of multilateralism.
 
We are living through a period of devastating conflicts and violence — from Gaza to the wider Middle East, to the Sahel to Ukraine and beyond.   
 
A period of climate disasters that have battered many of your countries with deadly heatwaves, melting glaciers, droughts, rising seas, floods and storms — while constraining already limited fiscal space and erasing development gains.
 
A period in which the Sustainable Development Goals — and the futures of millions of people around the world — hang in the balance.
 
A period defined by a widening digital divide, and technological advancements racing ahead of our ability to govern them for the good of humanity.
 
And a period of deep mistrust and divisions that are becoming more and more entrenched.
 
Excellencies,
 
It is in your countries where the impacts of these crises are most keenly felt.
 
But thanks in great part to your tireless efforts, we saw a new flicker of hope at September’s Summit of the Future.  
 
The Pact for the Future adopted at the Summit is a sign of a new solidarity among countries.
 
Along with the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations, the Pact proves that countries can rally around reform.
 
These are not just agreements.
 
These represent a promise that countries can unite to reshape a multilateral system that serves all people and all countries. 
 
And they represent a global recognition that — for too long, in too many ways — developing countries have been handed a raw deal.
 
A raw deal on finance — in which development is deferred, time and again, by a lack of adequate and affordable finance and grinding cycles of debt service.
 
A raw deal on climate support — with countries denied the resources required to build resilience and avert climate catastrophe they did little to cause.
 
And a raw deal on representation at key decision-making bodies — from the global financial architecture, to the governance of groundbreaking technology, to the UN Security Council itself.
 
When looking at these challenges, we cannot forget the decades, even centuries, of injustice, violence and coercion inflicted on many of your countries.
 
The long shadows of colonialism, slavery and unchecked resource extraction continue to loom today.
 
And the multilateral machinery the world has used since 1945 to build peace, provide finance and govern global relations has proven to be woefully unfit to meet today’s challenges.
 
It has failed to adequately deliver the level of support your countries need and deserve.
 
And more fundamentally, it has kept your voice from being fairly heard and heeded at key decision-making tables.   
 
The Pact of the Future’s clear commitment to expand representation on the Security Council and to reform the international financial architecture are important examples of global commitments to update our institutions to better reflect, and address, today’s realities.
 
I applaud your group of countries — individually and collectively — for pushing for maximum ambition and maximum justice for all.
 
As this year begins, let’s keep pushing to deliver on the Pact’s commitments.
Excellencies,
 
Later this week, I will deliver an address on priorities for the coming year. 
 
Suffice it to say, 2025 must be a year of keeping promises to developing countries.  
 
To intensify our efforts to make the Sustainable Development Goals a reality for all people in all places.
 
To put an end to poverty and hunger, transform education and create jobs, and provide equitable and affordable access to energy, technology, finance and markets — essential elements for developing countries to prosper.
 
And to ensure developing countries can access the financial resources required to fuel development.
 
We need Multilateral Development Banks that are bigger, bolder and better, enabling them to massively scale up affordable financing for countries in need.
 
We need pre-emptive action to help countries in or near debt distress, so that they can refocus on investing in the SDGs.
 
We need a debt resolution architecture that works in a more timely and effective manner for countries in crisis.
 
And we need an open, predictable, inclusive multilateral trading system that can help developing countries build links to global value chains, drive prosperity and fight poverty.
 
The world must also keep its promises on climate.
 
By sparing no effort to keep 1.5 degrees alive through a reduction in global emissions of nine per cent every year to 2030.  
 
By ensuring a just transition from fossil fuels to renewables.
  
And by putting forward new, economy-wide national climate action plans by COP30 that align with 1.5 degrees. 
  
The biggest countries — the G20 — must lead.
 
But all countries need to step up their ambition, in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. 
 
Developing countries need a surge of support to adapt and protect your people from deadly climate impacts. 
 
Developed countries must honour their commitment on climate finance — including a doubling of adaptation finance to at least $40 billion [USD] a year.
 
Multilateral Development Banks must ensure concessional finance is deployed where it is most needed, factoring in the structural vulnerabilities you’re facing.
 
And it’s high time to address the injustices of the energy transition.
 
It’s absurd, for example, that Africa is home to 60 per cent of the world’s best solar resources — but only two per cent of global investments in solar power.
 
And we must ensure that critical mineral resources in developing countries benefit them, first and most, by maximizing their participation in value chains. 

 *****
 
Enfin, le monde doit honorer la promesse de mettre en place des garde-fous efficaces pour les technologies émergentes.
 
Le Pacte numérique mondial comprend le premier accord véritablement universel sur la gouvernance de l’intelligence artificielle qui donne voix au chapitre à tous les pays.
 
Nous devons veiller à ce que tous les peuples bénéficient des promesses et du potentiel de l’IA de contribuer au développement généralisé et au progrès social et économique.
 
Excellences,
 
Alors que nous nous apprêtons à relever les grands défis de l’année, vous pouvez compter sur mon soutien continu au Groupe des 77 et de la Chine.
 
Continuons à lutter pour la justice.
 
Faisons de 2025 l’année où les promesses faites seront tenues.
 
Je vous remercie.
 
 
***
 

Source: United Nations – English

strong>Download the video: https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+16+Dec+24/3323310_MSG+SG+INTL+RENEWABLE+ENERGY+AGENCY+16+DEC+24.mp4
 
Excellencies, friends,

The International Renewable Energy Agency is at the heart of the renewables revolution.

And that revolution is in full swing.

Roll out is accelerating.

Prices keep falling.

The clean energy age is coming.

And the benefits for energy sovereignty, security, and affordability are crystal clear.

But we must move faster:

To bring the great benefits of clean power to all;

And to limit the rise in global temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

That requires urgent action in three areas.

First, governments must chart a just transition away from fossil fuels, and towards clean energy, in their new national climate action plans – or NDCs – due this year.

These must align with the 1.5 degree limit – as promised.

They must contribute to the global energy transition commitments in the UAE Consensus. 

They must align national energy strategies and development priorities with climate ambitions.

And they must guarantee no new coal, and commit to total coal phase out – moving directly to renewables.

Second, finance.

Developing and emerging economies are being left behind. Outside of China, they have received just one in five dollars of global clean energy investment since 2016.

Countries must tackle well-known barriers, and deliver on the commitments in the Pact for the Future: 

Particularly, increasing the lending capacity of the Multilateral Development Banks, boosting concessional finance, and taking effective action on debt.

We also need an effective price on carbon and to tap innovative sources of finance.

Third, we need governments, civil society, business and more to work together for a just transition – supporting affected workers and communities.

This includes shifting fossil fuel subsidies to investments in that transition. 

Across all these areas and more, I thank IRENA for its leadership and vital voice. 

I am proud to stand with you in creating a prosperous, renewable-powered world.

Let’s keep pushing forward together.

Thank you.
***

Source: United Nations – English

oday’s assessment from the World Meteorological Organization is clear:  Global heating is a cold, hard fact. 

We have just endured the hottest decade on record – with 2024 topping the list, and likely to be the first calendar year with a global mean temperature of more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.  

Individual years pushing past the 1.5 degree limit do not mean the long-term goal is shot. It means we need to fight even harder to get on track. 

Blazing temperatures in 2024 require trail-blazing climate action in 2025.

Specifically, governments must deliver new national climate action plans this year to limit long-term global temperature rise to 1.5°C, and support the most vulnerable deal with devastating climate impacts.

There’s still time to avoid the worst of climate catastrophe. But leaders must act – now.  

Source: United Nations – English

he Secretary-General congratulates Joseph Aoun on his election as President of the Republic of Lebanon.
 
Following a prolonged presidential vacuum of over two years, the Secretary-General welcomes this important development.  He encourages the swift formation of a new government, to address the needs and aspirations of the Lebanese people, including with respect to preserving the country’s security and stability, strengthening state authority across Lebanon as well as advancing much-needed reforms. The United Nations underscores its continued commitment and support in this regard.
 
The Secretary-General reiterates the United Nations’ commitment to support the strengthening of the sovereignty, stability and political independence of Lebanon in accordance with the Taif Accord and Baabda declaration, and the effective implementation of Security Council resolutions 1701 (2006), 1559 (2004) and other relevant resolutions, which are essential to the stability of Lebanon and the region.