Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
September 19, 2025 UN
Ahead of the UN General Assembly High-Level Week, the Secretary-General addressed world leaders, warning that the "global crisis" – by which he means war, climate change, inequality and technological risks – requires urgent and coordinated action.
“We are facing a global crisis: conflicts are multiplying, and geopolitical differences are preventing their effective resolution,” he said. Antonio Guterres in an interview with the United Nations News Service conducted by Melissa Fleming, Director of the Department of Global Communications.
There is a feeling of impunity – each country believes that it can do whatever it pleases
"A sense of impunity has emerged – every country believes it can do whatever it pleases," the UN chief noted. "Meanwhile, developing countries are facing enormous challenges. Many are drowning in debt, unable to access the soft financing needed for economic recovery. Inequality is growing."
The need for global cooperation
The Secretary-General stressed that the UN seeks to mobilise international cooperation across a range of areas.
"Climate change is unchecked," he said. "We are receiving multiple signals indicating that it will be extremely difficult for us to achieve the main goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (the threshold set by the 2015 Paris Agreement – editor's note)."
The Secretary-General warned that while emerging technologies have significant potential, they can increase polarisation in society and fuel hatred, so regulation is needed that "preserves human agency and makes technology a force for good."
António Guterres noted that the upcoming General Assembly session should lead to countries making commitments in key areas, including reducing emissions, reforming the international financial system and strengthening multilateralism.
The UN chief called on world leaders to "turn the tide" and support reform of the global financial architecture for greater justice and equality.
Focus on the Middle East
Peace and security issues will also be at the center of discussions at the General Assembly session. The Secretary-General expressed hope for clear international support for a two-state solution to resolve the conflict between Israel and Palestine, as well as for immediate action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The carnage taking place in Gaza must stop.
"The carnage taking place in Gaza must stop," he stressed. "We need an immediate ceasefire and the immediate release of all hostages."
During the interview, António Guterres also drew attention to Sudan and other "forgotten conflicts," calling on the Security Council to stand united in preventing further suffering.
"I am determined"
Guterres assured that his commitment to combating climate change remains unchanged.
"Every country must present a new climate plan that includes drastic emissions reductions. This is necessary to avoid a state of irreversibility that would lead to a catastrophe of colossal proportions for people around the world," the Secretary-General said, noting that the most vulnerable countries, including small island states and Africa, face disproportionate risks.
“I’m neither an optimist nor a pessimist – I’m determined,” António Guterres said at the end of the interview. “We must remain hopeful and not give up until we achieve our goals.”
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
.