UN Marks 80th Anniversary, Calls for Unity Amid Global Crises

UN Marks 80th Anniversary, Calls for Unity Amid Global Crises
New York, September 22, 2025 – Live from Times Square Global Broadcast

In a high-level commemorative event at the United Nations General Assembly Hall, Secretary-General António Guterres addressed world leaders on the 80th anniversary of the UN, urging nations to reignite the hope that inspired its founding and to face today’s global challenges with courage and solidarity.

Reflecting on the UN’s Mission
Guterres highlighted that the UN’s first-generation staff included survivors of war, who brought their experiences and scars to the cause of peace. “Peace is not naïve idealism—it is the bravest, most pragmatic, and indispensable pursuit,” he said.

The Secretary-General warned that the UN now faces unprecedented crises: civilians under attack in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan, widespread poverty and hunger, and escalating climate disasters including fires, floods, and heatwaves. He cautioned that without strong multilateral mechanisms, the world risks instability amid growing multipolar tensions.

“We must not only defend the UN, but strengthen it,” Guterres stated. He emphasized that initiatives such as the 2030 Agenda, the Future of the UN Charter, and the UN 80th Anniversary Initiative aim to rebuild the foundations of international cooperation and promote well-being for all.

He also recounted historic UN achievements: the eradication of smallpox, repair of the ozone layer, and the prevention of a third world war. Looking forward, he stressed that “the next eighty years will bring both familiar and new challenges—war and poverty persist, but we must also tackle climate crises, uncontrolled technology, space militarization, and unforeseen threats.”

UNGA President: Remember Lessons, Choose Hope
UN General Assembly President Analena Bërbërk reminded attendees of the UN Charter’s original purpose. She noted that 80 years ago, the world had endured over 70 million deaths, ongoing colonial oppression, and widespread destruction. The Charter was a solemn pledge by nations to prevent the repetition of hatred and ambition-driven devastation.

“Today is not a moment for celebration—it is a moment to remember the lessons of history and choose hope,” Bërbërk said. She called on nations to respond to crises with dialogue rather than division, with action rather than complacency.

Bërbërk also paid tribute to ordinary people around the world—from aid workers delivering food in Gaza to those providing education to Afghan girls—demonstrating the power of UN-inspired solidarity. She concluded: “The theme of this session, ‘United in Action,’ is not just a slogan—it is a truth passed from generation to generation. The UN flag may be imperfect, but together, we can make it stronger and brighter.”

The commemorative event emphasized that even after eight decades, the United Nations remains a beacon for global cooperation, peace, and collective action.