Guterres emphasized that impunity reigns in the world, undermining international stability. He pointed out that international law is often violated, and multilateral institutions face attacks. According to him, impunity has become the main driver of conflicts, leading to escalating violence and a loss of trust between states.
Global Changes
Guterres also highlighted the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the world, stating that cuts in aid funding are causing a “chain reaction” of suffering, migration, and deaths. He drew attention to the growing inequality that threatens social structures and the climate crisis, which continues to be one of the most serious global issues.
Moreover, he noted that the lack of restrictions on the development of new technologies leads to instability. According to Guterres, the world is changing every day: developing countries are strengthening their economic influence, and trade between them is growing, outpacing traditional flows between the North and the North.
The Need for a Multilateral Approach
The Secretary-General emphasized that global challenges cannot be addressed alone by one or two powers seeking to divide the world into spheres of influence. He called for the active development of multipolarity based on partnership.
However, Guterres warned that multipolarity alone is not a guarantee of peace and stability, reminding that Europe before World War I was also multipolar, but the lack of effective multilateral institutions led to conflicts.
“For a multipolar world to ensure balance, prosperity, and peace, we need strong multilateral institutions based on shared responsibility and common values,” he added.
UN Priorities in 2026
Guterres confirmed that the UN will continue to strive for the creation of a just and stable world, with one of its key priorities being the reform of the Security Council. He noted that the Security Council is the only body with the authority on issues of peace and security on behalf of all states.
The Secretary-General also pointed out that without development, it is impossible to achieve peace and stability, and the UN will continue its efforts to implement the Sustainable Development Goals.
Key areas of work in 2026 will include combating climate change and establishing a global governance system for artificial intelligence. He also reminded that an International Scientific Group on Artificial Intelligence has been established within the UN.
Peace Council on Gaza
In response to a question about the Peace Council initiated by US President Donald Trump, Guterres noted that the primary responsibility for ensuring international peace and security lies with the UN Security Council. He emphasized that it is the Security Council that adopted Resolution 2803 in support of the Comprehensive Plan to end the conflict in the Gaza Strip, and its implementation remains critically important.
The Secretary-General added that, despite the ceasefire, hostilities in Gaza continue, albeit less actively. He called for a complete ceasefire and a transition to the next stage—withdrawal of Israeli forces, disarmament of armed groups, and creation of conditions for the realization of the two-state concept.
Guterres also pointed out that no other structures or coalitions can replace the Security Council, as only it has the mandate under the UN Charter to make binding decisions in the field of peace and security and to authorize the use of force in accordance with international law.
Therefore, he noted, reforming the Security Council is extremely important. Guterres added that those who criticize the UN for its lack of effectiveness often oppose reforming this body themselves.
