Guterres: The United Nations is only as strong as its member states are committed to it

In a press conference held today at the conclusion of his visit to Japan, Guterres said that eight decades after the founding of the organization, “We can draw a direct line between the creation of the United Nations and the prevention of World War III.”

However, he pointed out that the world today is ravaged by conflict, climate chaos, and inequality, in light of a state of mistrust and geopolitical divisions that hinder reaching effective solutions, and the establishment of some states. “By violating international law without being held accountable.”

Guterres pointed out that inflation rates are rising, and the cost of living crisis is becoming more severe, a situation exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has caused a huge rise in the prices of energy and raw materials.

He added: “It is necessary to immediately re-establish freedom of navigation within the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding areas, put an end to all ceasefire violations, and create the necessary conditions for a political solution to the conflict.”

The Secretary-General said that global structures concerned with solving problems, in particular UN Security Council International financial institutions are not as effective as they should be in this challenging phase.

He called for the establishment of a multilateral system characterized by greater justice and the ability to continue to defend international law and hold states accountable for abiding by it – a system that:

🔹 Capable of taking bold action on climate change, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy – quickly and fairly for the benefit of developing countries by supporting adaptation efforts.

🔹Able to bring together governments and technology companies to ensure that artificial intelligence serves humanity and does not hinder its progress.

🔹It works to expand the funding needed to save lives and build peaceful and resilient societies around the world.

Guterres stated that some important initiatives have been launched to this end, including: Future Charterthe UN 80 Initiative, and the Seville Commitment on Financing for Development.

But he said that the most important reform needed lies in the UN Security Council, which is facing “A serious problem of legality and ineffectiveness.” He stressed the need to increase the number of permanent and non-permanent members of the Council, in order for it to become a council “Keeps pace with the realities of the contemporary world.”

He expressed his gratitude to Japan, as a “steadfast and generous champion of multilateralism and the power of cooperation and unity” since its accession to the Organization seventy years ago, and affirmed his determination to ensure a strong partnership between the United Nations and Japan for the future.