The United Nations held its final session of the year under the theme "Restoring Trust and Managing Transition: A United Nations that Delivers Results for All." During the session, UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered his farewell address to the General Assembly. Guterres will be concluding his second term as Secretary-General at the end of December 2026. In his address, he discussed pressing global issues, including eroding trust, wars, international law, climate change, and artificial intelligence.
Guterres emphasized that the problem lies not in wars themselves but in the loss of trust in the international system. He noted that selective application of laws and double standards have led to a decline in trust in international institutions. The Secretary-General observed that power dynamics have shifted, with influence now concentrated in the hands of major corporations and highly influential individuals, as well as artificial intelligence. He stressed that the current global governance structure, including the UN, still reflects a bygone era.
The Secretary-General called for urgent reforms to the UN Security Council, which he described as a cornerstone of the international system. He urged the protection of civilians and human rights, highlighting the devastating situation in Gaza as an example of the international community's failure to prevent atrocities. Guterres emphasized that international law exists but is applied inconsistently. He expressed concern that some powerful actors seem to operate above the law.
Guterres acknowledged that the UN has not failed but that its institutions are in need of reform to reflect current global realities. He expressed concern about the increasing influence of artificial intelligence and its potential implications. The Secretary-General reiterated his commitment to defending the principles and charter of the UN, even after leaving office. He warned that the current state of international relations poses significant risks to the world's future.
In his address, Guterres touched on various pressing global issues, including the proliferation of conflicts, climate change, and the need for collective action to address these challenges. He emphasized that the world is facing a crisis of trust in institutions and that this crisis must be addressed through meaningful reforms. The Secretary-General expressed his hope that the UN will continue to play a vital role in promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations.
Guterres' farewell address was broadcast live on various media outlets, including Wasat TV, Al-Wasat Radio, and Al-Wasat newspaper. The address was also covered by other major news organizations. The Secretary-General's speech was seen as a call to action for world leaders to work together to address pressing global challenges. His tenure as Secretary-General has been marked by efforts to reform the UN and promote sustainable development.
As Guterres prepares to leave office, he has expressed his commitment to continuing to advocate for the principles and values of the UN. He has warned that the world is at a critical juncture and that collective action is needed to address the many challenges facing the international community. The UN General Assembly will consider Guterres' proposals for reform and his vision for the future of the organization.
Key points
- Guterres calls for urgent reforms to the UN Security Council
- Secretary-General emphasizes need to protect civilians and human rights
- Guterres warns of risks posed by artificial intelligence and inconsistent application of international law
