French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a speech at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 22, 2026. He emphasized the need for collective action to address global challenges, urging against "an attitude of defeat" in the face of accumulating wars and crises. Macron's speech was centered around five key principles, including the reinforcement of multilateralism and respect for international law and state sovereignty.
Macron specifically addressed the situation in the Middle East, mentioning Lebanon, Syria, and the Palestinian territories. He called for the respect of Lebanon's sovereignty and the protection of Palestinian rights, stating that the most basic rights of Palestinians are consistently being violated. The French president also questioned the credibility of the international community in the face of the situation in Gaza, expressing concern over the inaction.
The French president criticized violations committed in the West Bank, saying they undermine a project based on respect for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people to exist. Macron warned that those who believe Israel's security requires violating its neighbors' sovereignty are making a "fatal mistake" that will weaken Israel's security in the long run. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach to ensure the security of all parties involved.
Macron also touched on the situation in Ukraine, reaffirming France's support for the Ukrainian people's aspirations for peace, security, and a better future. He called for swift negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow, advocating for a dual moratorium on energy and civilian infrastructure, as well as on the Black Sea. The French president highlighted the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, promoting freedom of navigation and securing energy supplies.
In addition to these issues, Macron focused on relations between the North and South, climate and biodiversity, and the regulation of artificial intelligence. He stressed the need to strengthen protection for children and adolescents against social media and AI-related risks. The French president concluded by urging UN member states to preserve the organization's role and enhance international cooperation in the face of crises and technological transformations.
Macron's speech was part of a broader effort to address pressing global issues. He highlighted the importance of collective action and cooperation to tackle these challenges. The French president's statements on Gaza, Palestine, and other issues underscored the need for a more proactive and coordinated international response.
The international community continues to face numerous challenges, from conflicts and crises to climate change and technological advancements. As world leaders gather at the UN General Assembly, Macron's speech serves as a reminder of the importance of cooperation, dialogue, and collective action to address these pressing issues and create a more stable and equitable world.
Key points
- Macron calls for action on Gaza and criticizes Palestinian rights violations
- French president emphasizes need for collective action to address global challenges
- Macron advocates for respect of international law and state sovereignty
