When the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly opens, President Annalena Baerbock has a clear message: global challenges demand global solidarity. Under the banner 'Better together,' she reminded journalists that no single nation—regardless of its size or wealth—can confront today's crises alone.
Baerbock pointed out that the UN was born in a moment of deep fracture. The UN Charter has guided international cooperation for eight decades, but now it's time to reflect, rebuild, and adapt the world body for the next 80 years. With 8 billion lives at stake, the question is simple: Why does the UN still matter?
Key priorities for this session include:
- Advancing the UN80 reform agenda to boost efficiency and impact
- Guiding the selection of the next UN secretary-general, the face and voice of the organization
- Regaining momentum on the Sustainable Development Goals after recent setbacks
The High-level Week events will set the stage for dialogue and action. Highlights include an 80th anniversary conference, talks on the peaceful settlement of the Palestine question and a two-state solution, and meetings marking 30 years since major women's and youth programmes.
From calls for peace in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and Haiti to tackling climate change, inequality and rapid tech shifts, Baerbock made it clear: turning promises into progress requires ambition and collective will. 'Our task is to ensure that the UN stands strong for the next 80 years,' she said. Now, it's time to act.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
