Guterres: We cannot stand by and watch injustice. We have the power to chart a different course

This came in his speech before the United Nations General Assembly today, Thursday, where the Secretary-General set his priorities for the new year and for the last time as Secretary-General of the organization, saying: “I want to look not just at this year, but beyond.”.

He warned that “The paradox of our time” She is that “At a time when we need international cooperation more than ever, we are less willing to use it and invest in it. Some are seeking to put international cooperation in the recovery room.”. But he went on to say: “I assure you: we will not surrender.”.

The Secretary-General of the United Nations added: “Even amidst this turmoil, we have succeeded in creating UN space where it was not given.”.

Among the examples he cited were a commitment to peace in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and other regions, and sparing no effort in providing life-saving aid to those most in need of support.

Commitment to the Charter

The Secretary-General specified “Three principles must underlie all our actions, not just for this year, but for our time.”.

The first principle: Commitment toUnited Nations Charter Full and sincere commitment.

He stressed that the Charter is the foundation of international relations, and the cornerstone of peace, sustainable development and human rights.

He warned that the erosion of international law is not happening in secret, but is unfolding before the eyes of the world on screens, adding that people everywhere are witnessing in real time the consequences of impunity, pointing to the unlawful use and threat of force, attacks on civilians, humanitarian workers and United Nations staff, unconstitutional changes of governments, violations of human rights, silencing of opposition, and plundering of resources.

Peace based on justice

The second principle: Persevere in our work for peace based on justice – peace between nations and peace with nature.

Guterres spoke about what conflict areas are witnessing in the world, including Gaza, where he welcomed the start of the second phase of the ceasefire. He reiterated the need for humanitarian aid to flow unhindered. He stressed that the ceasefire should be fully implemented, paving the way for an irreversible path towards a two-state solution in accordance with international law.

Regarding Sudan, Guterres said “The parties must agree to an immediate cessation of hostilities and resume talks to reach a permanent ceasefire and a comprehensive and inclusive Sudanese-led political process. Civilians must be protected.”.

He stressed that silencing the guns is not enough, adding “Peace is more than just the absence of war. The root causes of conflict must be addressed, otherwise any solution will be fragile.”.

In this regard, he also spoke about climate change, which is a threat multiplier, warning that: “A world in climate chaos cannot be a world in peace.”.

He stressed that climate justice is an investment in peace and security, because vulnerability anywhere becomes a danger everywhere.

Building united communities

The third principle: Building unity in an era of division.

The UN Secretary-General said that around the world, “we see the danger of societies collapsing under the weight of racism, xenophobic nationalism and religious intolerance.” He added that “These toxins corrupt the fabric of societies, fueling division and mistrust.”.

He pointed out that many people feel marginalized, and that “Accelerating globalization, coupled with technological progress, has undermined their opportunities.”.

He pointed out that aging societies cannot close in on themselves or build walls.

He went on to say: “Every state has the sovereign right, within the framework of the law, to manage its borders and ensure its security. But migrants and refugees also have rights that must be respected and protected wherever they are.”.

He stressed that “Our challenge – and priority – must be to build hospitable societies, not fortified castles. Societies that invest in social cohesion, integration, education, skills, decent jobs and social protection.”.

He explained that “The choice is clear: integration or isolation, renewal or degradation. We must build united societies in a world of the United Nations.”.

United Nations promise

Concluding his speech, the Secretary-General said that the world is changing, often in disturbing ways, but also in inspiring ways.

Guterres said: “The forces of division and inequality are powerful – but so is our capacity for solidarity and justice. Even in the midst of these difficult circumstances, we can anchor our work in peace, dignity and hope.”.

He added: “Let us never forget who we are and what we stand for. The United Nations is a living promise, a promise that despite our differences, we will solve problems together. Let us keep this promise. Let us never give up.”.