The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly opened Tuesday at UN headquarters in New York, led by newly sworn-in president Annalena Baerbock. Marking the UN’s 80th anniversary, the session carries the theme “Better Together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights.” In her opening remarks, Baerbock noted global crises from Gaza to Darfur and climate threats facing Pacific Islanders, asking whether the UN is fulfilling its founding mission. She stressed the need to adapt and build a stronger UN for the future.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recalled the organization’s founding vision as a body to prevent war and address poverty, hunger, illness, and inequality. He highlighted the UN Charter and last year’s Pact for the Future as essential tools to rebuild trust and drive cooperation. High-level events beginning September 22 will include the General Debate, a special meeting to commemorate the UN’s 80th anniversary, and conferences on climate, AI governance, women’s rights, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Credit: CGTN