By: ATN News
Munich: Addressing the Munich Security Conference, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a powerful message calling for urgent collective action to address the challenges facing the global community. In his remarks titled "Growing the Pie: A Global Order That Works for Everyone," Guterres highlighted the pressing need for a more inclusive and effective global order.
Guterres began by acknowledging that the current global order is failing to meet the needs of the world's population. He emphasized that the world is facing existential challenges, including nuclear threats, the climate crisis, and risks associated with uncontrolled artificial intelligence. Despite these challenges, global cooperation is faltering, and fragmentation is on the rise.
Reflecting on the Cold War era, Guterres noted that even during a period of heightened tension, mechanisms were in place to prevent catastrophic outcomes. However, in today's multipolar world, where power dynamics are shifting and global institutions lack the necessary strength, the risk of chaos and conflict is heightened.
The Secretary-General underscored the importance of upholding international law and commitments under the UN Charter. He lamented the disregard for these obligations by many governments, resulting in humanitarian crises and widespread suffering, such as the situation in Gaza.
Guterres condemned the recent terror attacks launched by Hamas against Israel and called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. He stressed the need for concrete steps towards a two-state solution, based on international law and UN resolutions.
Turning to the conflict triggered by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Guterres emphasized the need for a just and sustained peace in line with the UN Charter. He called for concerted efforts to strengthen regional organizations and pressure warring parties to negotiate.
In addition to addressing immediate crises, Guterres highlighted the need to update the global peace and security architecture to tackle emerging threats such as the climate crisis and cyber warfare. He proposed a New Agenda for Peace aimed at modernizing collective security systems and promoting inclusive multilateralism.
Guterres also addressed social divisions fueled by hate speech and polarization, stressing the importance of social cohesion and respect for human rights. He called on tech companies to take responsibility for combating toxic content online.
On the economic front, Guterres criticized the outdated and unfair global financial architecture, which has failed to support the world's poorest countries. He called for urgent action to provide affordable finance for sustainable development and advocated for deep reforms to create a more inclusive global economy.
Finally, Guterres urged decisive action to address the climate crisis, emphasizing the need for ambitious emissions reductions and investment in renewable energy.
In conclusion, Guterres emphasized the urgent need for global solidarity and cooperation to create a more inclusive and secure world for all. He called on world leaders to seize the opportunity presented by the upcoming UN Summit of the Future in September to chart a path towards a safer and more prosperous future.
The Secretary-General's impassioned plea resonated with delegates at the conference, underscoring the gravity of the challenges facing the international community and the imperative for collective action.
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