UN chief calls for approval of blueprint to address global challenges, from climate to AI, by divided nations

Last updated: 2024/09/19 at 1:24 AM

San Antonio Urban Editorial Team Published September 19, 2024

The United Nations Calls for Global Unity to Address Major Challenges

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is urging the world’s nations to compromise and approve a blueprint addressing global challenges from conflicts to climate change and artificial intelligence. The discussions on the “Pact of the Future” are in their final stretch, and Guterres emphasized the need for all 193 U.N. member nations to reach a consensus, stating that failure to do so would be tragic.

A year ago, Guterres sounded the alarm about the survival of humanity and the planet, calling for world leaders to take action at the Summit of the Future. The summit is set to unite leaders and address new global threats, focusing on reforming the U.N. and other institutions established after World War II. The event is scheduled for Sunday and Monday, leading up to the annual high-level meeting at the U.N. General Assembly.

Negotiations on the 30-page pact have been ongoing for months, with the latest revision focused on implementing challenges of the 21st century. Guterres emphasized the need for governance reforms in various areas, including climate change and AI.

The draft Pact of the Future highlights the need for global transformation and warns of rising catastrophic risks. It includes 51 actions related to eradicating poverty, combating climate change, promoting peace, and empowering the multilateral system to seize future opportunities.

Guterres noted potential breakthroughs in the pact, including Security Council reform and governance of new technologies like AI. He urged member states to move the pact forward, emphasizing the need for systems that are fit for future generations.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield expressed support for creating a more inclusive international system at the summit. While challenges remain, there is optimism that global leaders can overcome differences and reach a consensus on the Pact of the Future.

Overall, the call for unity and compromise by the United Nations underscores the importance of global cooperation in addressing complex challenges and creating a sustainable future for all.