The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) commenced on Tuesday with its newly elected President, Philemon Yang, urging deeper international cooperation to address pressing global challenges. Yang’s call to action came amid escalating concerns over climate change, ongoing conflicts, and a slowdown in sustainable development.
In his opening remarks, Yang highlighted the severe impact of climate change, which he said is wreaking havoc on the planet and threatening lives and societies. He also condemned the persistent conflicts and violence that continue to ravage regions from Sudan and Haiti to Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, resulting in widespread death and destruction. Yang further highlighted the enduring issues of poverty and hunger, as well as the rising prejudice and hate exacerbated by digital tools.
Yang urged member states to draw inspiration from the United Nations Charter and its principles of international cooperation to confront these global challenges. “Cooperation among member states is crucial for harnessing our collective resources and ingenuity to achieve humanity’s greatest aspirations, including peace, justice, and sustainable development,” he said.
During his tenure, Yang outlined several priorities, including unity in diversity, the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and a firm commitment to human dignity for all. He also emphasized the importance of multilingualism in the General Assembly’s proceedings and the promotion of gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Yang reaffirmed his commitment to advancing key General Assembly mandates, such as Security Council reform, revitalization of the General Assembly, and preparations for the Social Summit 2025.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed Yang’s sentiments, calling the General Assembly “the place where solutions are made” for the world’s many challenges. Guterres emphasized the need for renewed efforts to revive the Sustainable Development Goals, combat poverty and inequality, foster economic growth and job creation, bridge political divides, and address the climate crisis.
“As we open this 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, we confront a world in trouble. But the good news is that we can do something about it,” Guterres stated.
Guterres underscored the UNGA’s vital role as an indispensable tool for fostering a peaceful and just future for all people.
