“World is in danger and paralyzed”, says Guterres at the UN General Assembly

The Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), António Guterres, opened the General Assembly in New York this Tuesday (20). In his speech, he addressed topics such as the war in Ukraine, the fight against hunger, the climate crisis and the impact of social media on the world.

In his speech, Guterres commented on armed conflicts around the world – such as the war in Ukraine – and on attacks against democracy.

“Our world is in danger and paralyzed. The Security Council cannot take matters forward, democratic institutions are under threat and even international cooperation. We can’t go on like this,” she said.

“Dialogue is the only step forward, it is the only solution. No global measure can be made without the collision of those who wish, without the collision of the world”, he concluded.

Guterres used the description of a ship transporting Ukrainian grain to Africa as a “symbol of what the world can accomplish when we act together”.

“He navigated through a war zone – guided by the very parties to the conflict– as part of an unprecedented comprehensive initiative to get more food and fertilizer from Ukraine and Russia,” he said.

“It is essential to continue removing all remaining obstacles to the export of Russian fertilizers and their ingredients. These products are not subject to sanctions – and we are making progress in eliminating the indirect effects (…) Without action now, the global fertilizer shortage will quickly turn into a global food shortage”, he warned.

Speaking about the climate crisis, Guterres stated that “dmust be the first priority of all governments and multilateral organizations”.

The Portuguese recalled the impact of climate change around the world: “Last year brought us the worst heat wave in Europe since the Middle Ages. A mega drought in China, the United States and more. Famine in the Horn of Africa. One million species at risk of extinction. No region is untouched.”

The UN chief highlighted that the G20 countries emit 80% of all greenhouse gas emissions. “But the poorest and most vulnerable – those who have contributed the least to this crisis – are suffering its most brutal impacts,” he pointed out.

Guterres also spoke about the negative impact of social media on the world. “Profit-based social media platforms are doing immense harm to communities and society. Hate speech and misinformation.”

The secretary-general also reinforced hate speech against women on the networks. “Abuse especially targeting women is spreading further. Our data is being used to influence our behavior. Artificial intelligence can compromise the integrity of information systems, the media and even democracy.”