The UN continues to fulfill its mission despite global challenges

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September 18, 2025 UN

In a year marked by intensifying international crises – from growing conflicts and economic hardship to rapid climate change – the United Nations remained committed to advancing peace and sustainable development.

This is stated in the annual report Secretary-General, presented ahead of the 80th High-Level Week of the UN General Assembly. The document assesses the Organization's efforts in the face of growing threats.

Antonio Guterres He emphasized the resilience of UN staff who continue to deliver aid to people around the world despite difficult conditions:

"This report shows that despite these difficult times – or rather, precisely because they are difficult – we can and must create a better world, and we know it is within our reach," the UN chief said.

In 2024, the UN and its partners mobilized $25 billion (50 percent of the target), reaching 116 million people in need in nearly 80 countries.

These funds supported programs in the Horn of Africa, the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Sudan, Ukraine, Yemen, and in regions affected by natural disasters – the earthquake in Vanuatu, droughts in Southern and East Africa, and floods in Southeast Asia.

But 2024 became the most tragic year in history for UN and humanitarian personnel: 373 humanitarian workers died. Most of them were employees of UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, who were working in Gaza under extremely dangerous conditions.

© UNRWA/M. Hinawi

The UN continues to provide support to the residents of Gaza.

Peace and security are at the center of the UN mission

Despite growing threats, peace diplomacy remained the core of the Organization's work. The UN's daily efforts contributed to the protection of hundreds of thousands of civilians and the advancement of peace processes.

In Syria, under UN Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015), the Organization continued to engage with all parties to de-escalate violence and protect civilians. In the Occupied Palestinian Territory, the UN sought to end the violence and expand humanitarian operations. In Lebanon, efforts were undertaken in accordance with Resolution 1701 (2006), allowing civilians to return to their homes on both sides of the Blue Line.

The UN also supported peace negotiations, state-building processes, and the protection of citizens in Sudan and Abyei, where intercommunal violence was reduced. The UN Peacebuilding Fund allocated over $116 million to support national plans in more than 30 countries, with a particular focus on gender equality. Partnerships with regional organizations, such as the African Union, also played a vital role.

A New Vision of the Future

The 2024 Future Summit was a historic event in multilateralism. World leaders adopted the Pact for the Future—an agreement to revive international cooperation and find solutions for people and the planet. The document calls for strengthened diplomacy and conflict prevention, reform of the global financial system, accelerated action to combat climate change, and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Pact's annexes endorsed the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations. The former lays the foundations for a safe, open, and inclusive digital space, including bridging the digital divide and developing rules for the use of data and artificial intelligence. The latter, however, calls for taking into account the rights and interests of future generations when making decisions today.

These documents form the foundation of a renewed system of multilateral cooperation.

“By addressing the pressing challenges of our time, the United Nations is paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future where digital technologies serve all humanity,” the Secretary-General said.

Photo UN/L. Felipe

The Future Summit was held at the UN headquarters in New York in 2024.

Human rights and sustainable development

The UN continues to believe that human rights are the foundation of peace, justice, and development. In 2024, work was underway to eliminate violence against women and girls, empower rural and marginalized communities, and ensure women's participation in peace and constitutional processes.

Human rights have been integrated into approaches to conflict, migration, climate change and digital governance.

Sustainable development and climate were equally emphasized. The UN supported 170 countries in implementing national emission reduction plans and assisted developing countries in transitioning to low-carbon models. The organization also advocated for reform of the global financial system to reduce the SDG financing gap and give vulnerable countries a chance to achieve the Goals.

Loyalty to humanity

António Guterres commended the courage of UN personnel working in dangerous conditions. He condemned targeted attacks on civilians, hospitals, schools, and humanitarian workers as a violation of international law and an undermining of the UN Charter.

Despite everything, the Organization's employees continue to carry out their mission.

“We will work for peace, sustainable development and the protection of human rights for all humanity,” the Secretary-General emphasized.

These efforts, he noted, reflect the spirit of the Organization, which seeks not only to respond to the crises of today, but also to serve people around the world.

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Global Innovation Index: Europe Leads, China Among Top 10

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September 17, 2025 Economic development

Amid rapid technological advances and growing competition for intellectual resources, post-Soviet countries continue to seek a balance between the legacy of the past and the challenges of the future. The Global Innovation Index 2025 report, published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), offers a fresh look at how former Soviet states are addressing the challenge of building an innovation-driven economy.

Who's on top?

The top ten rankings are dominated by traditional heavyweights in the field of technological innovation:

1. Switzerland

2. Sweden

3. USA

4. South Korea

5. Singapore

6. UK

7. Finland

8. Netherlands

9. Denmark

10. China

The People's Republic of China entered the top ten for the first time, overtaking Germany and strengthening its position thanks to increased patent activity and generous investments.

Leading countries are actively and purposefully investing in science, technology, education, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Europe remains the most innovative region in the world, and China is the engine of development among emerging economies.

Leaders and followers in the post-Soviet space

Among the post-Soviet countries, Estonia achieved the greatest success, ranking 16th thanks to effective digital governance, startup development, and investment in education. Lithuania (33rd) and Latvia (41st) also demonstrated steady growth, particularly in life sciences and financial technology. Georgia (56th) is focusing on IT and the creative industries, gradually improving its position.

Despite its high scientific potential, Russia ranked 60th—below expectations. The report notes weak commercialization of research, limited access to venture capital, and insufficient integration into global innovation chains. "Russia has a strong academic base, but it needs to more actively transform knowledge into marketable products," the report states.

Ukraine ranked 66th, Moldova 74th, Belarus 85th, Azerbaijan 94th, Kyrgyzstan 96th, and Tajikistan 108th.

Problems of a similar nature

Many countries in the post-Soviet space face similar challenges: insufficient funding for scientific research, brain drain, and weak intellectual property protection. However, there are also positive examples. Uzbekistan (79th place) entered the index for the first time, demonstrating interest in digitalization and educational reform. Armenia (59th place) is actively developing technology parks and cooperation with the diaspora. Kazakhstan (81st place) is investing in infrastructure and international partnerships, particularly in green technologies.

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In an interview with RT, Maxim Liksutov discussed the development of driverless transport in the capital.

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The main points from the conversation:

Russia's first driverless tram has already traveled over 10,000 km along the capital's streets without a single traffic violation. It operates with the utmost safety thanks to a unique set of equipment in the global transportation industry.

The driverless system was developed entirely by Moscow Metro employees. The Moscow Government owns the technology.

Following the completion of testing of the driverless tram, Moscow is ready to share this unique development with other regions of Russia.

The launch of the driverless tram has provided a solid foundation for expanding the project. We plan to integrate the technology into other modes of transport, which requires significant preparation.

By the end of next year, a driverless metro train capable of operating at 90-second intervals will be ready. Then, we'll begin conducting test rides with passengers.

Specialists have already begun developing software for driverless electric buses in Moscow. However, driverless rail transport remains the priority.

By 2035, 90% of Moscow's trams will be driverless. The groundwork has been laid, thanks to the creation of an intelligent, high-tech transportation system in Moscow.

Top Stories of the Day | Wednesday: Ukraine, Gaza, Afghanistan, General Assembly

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September 17, 2025 UN

The top news of the day at the UN and around the world: humanitarian workers injured in the Kherson region, evacuation from Gaza City, Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, General Assembly priorities.

Strikes in the Kherson region

According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), a drone strike in the Kherson region earlier this week injured two humanitarian workers and damaged a humanitarian vehicle. In this regard, the UN is warning of a disturbing trend: between January and August, at least seven humanitarian workers were killed and another 44 injured across Ukraine, with the highest number of casualties recorded in the Kherson region. UN Coordinator for Ukraine Matthias Schmale condemned the attack, emphasizing that humanitarian workers should not be targeted under any circumstances.

The Gaza crisis

OCHA continues to call for immediate security for Gaza's civilians. The issuance of evacuation orders does not relieve parties to the conflict of their responsibilities to protect civilians during hostilities, the UN stated. Today, the Israeli army once again ordered people to leave Gaza City within 48 hours. Thousands continue to flee amid intense fighting. Between Monday and Tuesday, humanitarian agencies recorded nearly 40,000 displacements to the south of the enclave. Meanwhile, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) warns that the Israeli offensive is forcing women in Gaza to give birth on the streets, without medical care or clean water.

The situation in Afghanistan

"Ideologically motivated decisions" can undermine opportunities for sustainable development and increase the suffering of the Afghan populationThis was stated at a Security Council meeting by Roza Otunbayeva, who will soon be leaving her post as the Secretary-General's Special Representative and Head of the UN Mission in the country. She warned that closing schools for girls after sixth grade will have significant long-term consequences. Otunbayeva expressed hope that the international community and Afghanistan will be able to agree on a path that will achieve positive results, especially for the country's women and girls.

UN General Assembly

Ahead of the opening of the high-level debate of the UN General Assembly, the President of its 80th session, Annalena Baerbock stated the need for updating and modernization The United Nations, so it can address the challenges of the coming decades. Baerbock also noted that the General Assembly's efforts during her presidency will focus on advancing the reform agenda within the framework of the UN80 initiative, electing the next Secretary-General, and implementing the Pact for the Future.

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Annalena Baerbock: "The UN must demonstrate its relevance to the world"

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September 17, 2025 UN

In anticipation of the opening high-level debate of the UN General Assembly The President of its 80th session, Annalena Baerbock, stated the need to renew and modernize the United Nations so that it can cope with the challenges of the coming decades.

Baerbock previously outlined her vision for the coming year under the theme "Working Together," emphasizing unity, solidarity, and collective action as fundamental principles.

The need for reform

"No country, no matter its size, strength, or wealth, can confront the immense challenges we face alone," she explained, speaking to reporters in New York on Wednesday. "This Organization was born in a moment of profound division—perhaps the darkest hour in history. But it gave us the UN Charter, which remains a guiding light today, guiding our work and reminding us of what we want to achieve together."

Read also:

EXPLAINED | What you need to know about the 80th session of the UN General Assembly

However, according to Baerbock, eighty years is a long time, and the world has changed significantly. Therefore, as the UN celebrates its anniversary, it is necessary to "rethink and restructure" its work in order to "show the world's eight billion people why this Organization still matters."

Baerbock also noted that the General Assembly's efforts during her presidency will be focused on advancing the reform agenda within the framework of UN-80 initiatives, the election of the next Secretary-General and implementation of the Pact for the Future.

High Level Week

Speaking about the upcoming High-Level Week, Baerbock said that approximately 150 heads of state and government, as well as thousands of delegates, are expected to attend. She emphasized that she intends to use every opportunity to emphasize the need for dialogue and diplomacy. "My message to leaders will be: speak, listen, discuss“,” said the Chairperson of the General Assembly.

Among the planned events, Baerbock highlighted:

a meeting to commemorate the eightieth anniversary of the United Nations; the Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine; a high-level meeting to commemorate the thirtieth anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the World Programme of Action for Youth; a meeting on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases and the promotion of mental health and well-being; a conference on the situation of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar; and a meeting to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

Principled conviction

According to the General Assembly President, the Organization faces a growing list of challenges with limited resources. "We are at a crossroads—a moment of truth for the United Nations and multilateralism as a whole. But right now, we must work even harder," Baerbock noted.

"Our predecessors in 1945 showed the courage and wisdom to overcome differences and work together. We need the same principled conviction today," she added. Baerbock emphasized that she would convey this message to world leaders during the debate and throughout the session to "turn promises into action, commitments into progress, and hope into reality."

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UN Security Council: Restrictions on education and work for girls and women undermine Afghanistan's development

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September 17, 2025 Peace and security

"Ideologically motivated decisions" could undermine opportunities for sustainable development and exacerbate the suffering of the Afghan population. This was the warning issued by Roza Otunbayeva, who is soon to leave her post as the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), at a Security Council meeting on Wednesday.

“Shortly before I arrived in Afghanistan three years ago, a devastating earthquake struck the southeast of the country – similar to the one recently occurred in a number of eastern provinces"At that time, I visited the site of the tragedy, met with the victims, and discussed cooperation with the local de facto authorities. I saw the people's despair and their need for assistance, as well as the efforts of the local authorities. I called on the international community to provide funds, and the UN system, in cooperation with the de facto authorities, provided first emergency and then long-term assistance," she said.

However, the Special Representative continued, several months after these events, the de facto authorities imposed a ban on women's education and then banned them from working in non-governmental and international organizations. According to her, "these decisions demonstrate competing tendencies within the de facto power structures: one is more pragmatic and focused on the needs of the Afghan people, the other is focused on creating a so-called 'pure Islamic system,'" brings more and more restrictions for Afghans".

Consequences of restrictions on women

This especially affects the situation of women and girls"After three and a half years of school closures for girls above sixth grade, an entire generation risks becoming a 'lost generation'—with massive long-term consequences for the country—causing grave concern and despair throughout Afghan society," Otunbayeva emphasized.

United Nations News Service

Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan Roza Otunbayeva.

A recent survey conducted by UN Women found that the overwhelming majority of Afghans oppose the ban on girls' education. The World Bank estimates that this restriction costs the country's economy $1.4 billion annually.

In a statement released today to mark the fourth anniversary of the ban, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell recalled that by the end of 2025, more than 2.2 million girls will be excluded from the education system. She emphasized that the devastating earthquake, which claimed the lives of over a thousand children, highlighted the "critical role of educated and skilled women in health and social care." According to Russell, "this ban poses a serious threat to the country's long-term stability and progress." "No nation can prosper if half its population is left behind," the UNICEF executive said in a statement.

Constructive steps by the de facto authorities

Otunbayeva also noted a number of positive developments since August 2021. She noted that the country has seen a reduction in the scale of armed clashes, which has ensured relative security stability.

The Special Representative also emphasized that the ban on opium poppy cultivation has remained in place since the spring of 2023, bringing long-term benefits to the region and the world, although it has had a short-term impact on the lives of some rural residents. Furthermore, the "general amnesty" announced in August 2021 has helped reduce the scale of repression in the country, despite isolated violations, which, as the head of UNAMA emphasized, "are unacceptable and must be stopped." Otunbayeva also cited decisions issued by the Taliban leadership, including the ban on torture and the right to legal representation, as well as constructive engagement with the UN Mission, which has granted human rights groups access to all 34 prisons in the country.

Choosing pragmatism to overcome the crisis

Among the main challenges facing the country, she named a reduction in humanitarian aid of almost 50 percent in 2025, a weak economy, the threat of drought and natural disasters, as well as the mass return of Afghans from neighboring countries.

“The question remains whether the de facto authorities have the pragmatism to manage this ‘perfect storm’ of crises, or whether ideologically driven decisions will hinder sustainable solutions, prolonging the suffering of Afghans and undermining existing stability,” the Special Representative said.

After the devastating earthquake

Touching on the aftermath of the recent earthquake, the head of UNAMA reported that authorities had taken steps to evacuate victims and coordinate with international agencies. However, there were also reports on new restrictions against female UN employees, which seriously undermines the ability to provide aid. "We have issued a statement calling for this ban and its enforcement to be lifted, and I urge the Security Council to support our call," Otunbayeva said.

Roza Otunbayeva is leaving her post.

Concluding her remarks, she emphasized: "As I prepare to leave Afghanistan in a few days, I remain confident that the majority of Afghans want continued engagement between the international community and their country, despite the obstacles. I sincerely hope that a path can be agreed upon that will allow this engagement to continue and produce more positive results." especially for women and girls in Afghanistan".

Read also:

A Hundred Years of Struggle for Women's Rights in Kyrgyzstan: Roza Otunbayeva Calls for More

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Ukraine: UNICEF helps population prepare for fourth winter amid full-scale war

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September 17, 2025 Humanitarian aid

Residents of Ukraine are preparing for their fourth winter amidst a full-scale war. Civilian infrastructure is currently under enormous strain, and families' resources are stretched to the limit.

Due to severe damage to energy, heating, and plumbing systems, many residential buildings, as well as healthcare and educational institutions, will be without heat, electricity, or water. The situation will only worsen as cold weather approaches. Since February 2022, district heating systems have suffered approximately $2.5 billion in damage.

Over the past three years, poverty levels among the Ukrainian population have risen, increasing the risks to children's health and well-being, especially in subzero temperatures in the regions hardest hit by the war. Last winter, one in five families reported health problems related to the cold at home.

"Children and families already living under daily stress will now be forced to endure another winter of war," said UNICEF spokesman Munir Mammadzadeh.

“We are working in collaboration with local partners to support vulnerable families and minimize the impact of the winter period,” he added.

UNICEF's response plan for the 2025–2026 winter months is based on past experience and addresses families' needs. Many noted that cash assistance significantly improved their living conditions: 94 percent of families stated that financial support was their most preferred form of winter assistance. Almost all households spent the funds on utilities, heating, and electricity, as well as winter clothing and footwear.

Read also:

Ukraine: More than 1,200 deaths caused by cluster munitions registered since war began

UNICEF plans to provide cash transfers to families and schools, as well as support the repair and modernization of district heating systems. The plan includes three key areas: cash assistance for 272,000 people in frontline areas, including approximately 122,000 children, as well as children with special needs; financial support for 600 educational institutions; and the provision of equipment and emergency repairs to district heating systems, which will provide heat to one million people, including 170,000 children.

This work is consistent with The UN and Humanitarian Partners Winter Response Plan for 2025–2026, aimed at providing assistance to more than 1.7 million people.

Winter preparation measures have been underway for several months to ensure the necessary materials and equipment are delivered in advance. For example, new gas boilers and pipes were recently delivered and installed for a boiler house in Konotop, Sumy Oblast, providing more reliable heating for 80,000 people. This is just one example, UNICEF notes.

The plan is currently 37 percent funded, and an additional $41 million is urgently needed to help the most vulnerable children and families survive the freezing winter months.

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Europe on the brink of a staffing crisis: who is treating Europeans and why is the WHO concerned?

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September 17, 2025 Healthcare

The rapid growth in the number of foreign doctors and nurses in countries across the region is creating both new opportunities and significant challenges for the sustainability of health systems, according to a new report from the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe (WHO/Europe).

A doctor from Moldova, a nurse from the Philippines, a surgeon from Egypt—they are increasingly becoming the face of European medicine. According to a new WHO-Europe report, over the past ten years, the number of foreign specialists in the region's healthcare has increased exponentially: by 58 percent among doctors and by 67 percent among nurses. Moreover, the majority of them—over 60 percent of doctors and 72 percent of nurses—were trained outside of Europe.

“Behind every migration there is a story – a desire for a better future, but also a break with family and weakened health systems in the countries from which they leave,” says Natassia Azzopardi-Muscat, Director of Health Policy at WHO/Europe.

The East is losing personnel, the West is dependent on migrants

The report covers nine countries—from Ireland to Tajikistan—and shows how unevenly the effects of migration are distributed. Eastern and Southern Europe are losing thousands of professionals, exacerbating existing skills shortages. Meanwhile, Western and Northern countries are increasingly dependent on foreign workers. In Ireland, for example, more than half of nurses and 43 percent of doctors are graduates of foreign universities.

The WHO predicts that Europe will face a shortage of 950,000 health workers by 2030. To avoid the collapse of healthcare systems, the organization believes countries urgently need to implement retention strategies, improve planning, and invest in training.

“We encourage improved working conditions in donor countries and strive for greater self-sufficiency in recipient countries,” explains Thomas Zapata, WHO Regional Human Resources Advisor.

Migration is no longer linear

While migration was previously perceived as a continuous flow from south to north, today the picture is much more complex. Germany, for example, has become the main supplier of doctors to Austria, Switzerland, and Bulgaria. In Romania, the largest group of foreign medical professionals are specialists from Moldova.

Lessons and examples: how countries are adapting

The report provides specific examples of countries adapting to new conditions. Romania managed to reduce the outflow of doctors from 1,500 in 2012 to 461 in 2021 thanks to higher salaries and improved working conditions. Moldova has recorded a decrease in the number of requests to leave the country. Ireland, on the other hand, is expanding the training of local students to reduce its dependence on migrants.

WHO calls for coordinated action

The report calls on countries to invest in national education, strengthen retention strategies, adapt curricula to the needs of the health system, and establish transparent international recruitment agreements.

“Migration of health workers is a reality of the global world,” warns Azzopardi-Muscat, “but unless we ensure fair conditions, we risk deepening inequalities and weakening vulnerable systems.”

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EXPLAIN | What you need to know about the 80th session of the UN General Assembly

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September 16, 2025 UN

In a few days, world leaders will gather at the United Nations headquarters on the banks of the East River in Manhattan for one of their most important annual international meetings.

Representatives of all 193 UN Member States, as well as two delegations from observer countries will perform during General Debate of the Organization, which will take place in the famous General Assembly Hall. At the same time, a series of high-level meetings will begin at the headquarters to discuss the most pressing issues facing humanity.

In the face of global crises ranging from war and climate change to gender inequality and the ethical dilemmas surrounding artificial intelligence, the High-Level Week is more than just a tradition. It is a vital moment for humanity, when the international community can reflect on the state of the planet, renew its commitments, and reimagine a shared future.

The events mark the start of the 80th session of the General Assembly, the UN's main deliberative body, which this year marks the 80th anniversary of the creation of the United Nations.

So here's what to look out for during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly…

Photo UN/L. Felipe

General debate: speeches, speeches and more speeches

The general debate, which begins on September 23, is for many the highlight of the General Assembly session. World leaders take turns at the podium in the General Assembly Hall to lay out their positions and priorities to a global audience.

The provisional time limit for each speaker to effectively schedule more than 193 speeches over a six-day period is 15 minutes, but this limit is rarely observed in good faith.

Traditionally, Brazil is the first to perform, followed by the United States as the host country.

The new President of the General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock, only the fifth woman in the UN’s 80-year history to hold the position, will chair the debate. The theme of this year’s policy debate is “Working together: 80 years of working together for peace, development and human rights and the way forward.”

When is my country's representative speaking?

Find out more about general debate.

© UNICEF/M. Natil

Two-State Solution: 'Further Than Ever Before'

According to the UN Secretary General, speaking in July 2025, the implementation of the two-state solution – the proposed framework for resolving the conflict between Israel and Palestine, which would create two states for two peoples – now seems less feasible than “ever before.”

The two-state solution was adopted as the basis for a settlement before the current conflict in Gaza, which began in October 2023 following deadly Hamas terrorist attacks in southern Israel.

As the death toll in Gaza approaches 70,000 and some hostages taken in Israel remain in captivity, UN member states will continue talks on the issue at the organization's headquarters on Monday, September 22.

This conference will be a continuation of the meetings that took place in the UN General Assembly in July 2025 without the participation of Israel and the United States.

© UNDP

30th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration: Empowering Women and Girls

The 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action is considered the most progressive plan to achieve gender equality and advance the rights of women and girls worldwide.

Despite some progress made in the three decades since that landmark declaration, UN Women, the UN's gender agency, has found that the world is seeing "growing backlash" on women's rights.

On Monday, 22 September, a high-level meeting will be held on the theme “Renewing, resourcing and accelerating the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action to achieve gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls”. In this context, aspects such as the digital revolution, freedom from poverty, non-violence, full and equal participation in life-changing decisions, an equal voice in peace and security, and climate justice will be discussed.

Climate: Fighting Global Warming

As the world struggles to keep temperature rises within the internationally agreed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, a summit on Wednesday, September 24, will address the pace of temperature change and the scale of the global climate crisis.

World leaders will unveil new national climate action plans – country-level commitments that set out steps to combat climate change.

The forum will bring together governments, businesses and civil society to share ideas on how to spur action in mitigation, adaptation, finance and information policy. “This is our chance [to achieve a breakthrough],” the UN chief stressed. Antonio Guterres.

The summit comes ahead of a key UN climate change conference, known as COP30, which starts in Brazil in November.

© Unsplash/Lucas

Artificial Intelligence: The Need for Control and Limitations

Artificial intelligence impacts every area of life: from driverless cars to medical imaging analysis, from business management to financial trading algorithms, from virtual assistants to real-time translation.

However, the benefits of AI are unevenly distributed, and many countries struggle to access the tools that could support their development and improve the lives of ordinary people.

The rapid expansion of AI applications inevitably brings with it many risks, including the unreliability of information disseminated online and threats to human rights, such as digital surveillance.

There is currently no formal, globally recognized body that governs AI at the global level, so world leaders will gather in New York on September 25 to discuss a framework for inclusive and accountable governance of artificial intelligence.

“Without proper guardrails, AI could further exacerbate inequality and the digital divide, and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable. We must seize this historic opportunity… for the benefit of all humanity,” the UN chief said.

A number of other major events will take place during the High Level Week:

Celebration of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations (22 September). Summit on a Sustainable, Inclusive and Resilient Global Economy on “Delivering Commitments on Financing for Development” (24 September). High-level Meeting on the Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-being (25 September). High-level meeting to commemorate the thirtieth anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth (25 September). High-level meeting to promote the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons (25 September).

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Top Stories of the Day | Tuesday: General Assembly, Israel, UN Budget, Ozone Layer

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September 16, 2025 UN

The main news of the day at the UN and in the world: New York prepares to host the leaders of almost 150 states and governments; Independent international commission accuses Israel of genocide; UN budget proposed to be cut by $500 million in 2026; September 16 marks International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.

UN General Assembly

New York is preparing to host leaders of nearly 150 states and governments for the 80th High-Level Week of the General Assembly. The UN Secretary-General told a news conference at the UN headquarters that the coming week should be a time for solutions, not political rivalries. According to the Secretary-General, it will open up opportunities for dialogue and mediation. He said he will hold more than 150 bilateral meetings and will use each one to encourage leaders to talk to each other and “find solutions.”

Independent Commission Accuses Israel of Genocide

Independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council on Tuesday said Israel's actions in Gaza constituted genocide, a charge Tel Aviv categorically rejected. In a new report released amid escalating Israeli military operations in Gaza, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel called on Israel and all states to fulfil their obligations under international law "to end the genocide" and punish those responsible.

UN Budget Cuts

The United Nations has completed a review of its 2026 budget estimates, proposing cost reductions of more than $500 million and staffing reductions of 19 percent compared to the 2025 budget. The cuts will also affect UN peacekeeping missions around the world. However, the changes will not affect programmes and activities that directly support UN member states, especially least developed, landlocked and small island states, or development initiatives in Africa.

Ozone layer

September 16 is the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. On this day in 2009, the Vienna Convention, which concerns measures to protect people and the planet from harmful ultraviolet radiation, and the Montreal Protocol, according to which chemicals that destroy the ozone layer began to be gradually phased out, received universal ratification. The UN calls on countries to continue to take measures to protect the environment and combat climate change.

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