UN Chief urges world leaders to choose peace over war in new year message
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a warning to global leaders, emphasizing the current global challenges of conflict, division, and climate breakdown.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a warning to global leaders, emphasizing the current global challenges of conflict, division, and climate breakdown.
In his New Year’s message, Guterres highlighted ongoing chaos and uncertainty on the global stage, alongside systemic violations of international law and a retreat from shared human values. He questioned whether leaders are prepared to listen and act.
Military Expenditure vs. Development Aid
The UN chief pointed out that global military spending has increased to 2.7 trillion dollars , representing a nearly ten percent rise. This expenditure is thirteen times greater than global development aid and equals the entire GDP of Africa, amid conflicts at levels not seen since World War Two.
The UN chief pointed out that global military spending has increased to 2.7 trillion dollars , representing a nearly ten percent rise.
Guterres urged leaders to reconsider their priorities, advocating for more investment in poverty reduction over military spending. He stressed the importance of peace and noted that existing resources are sufficient to improve lives, protect the planet, and ensure a future of peace and justice.
Looking towards 2026, Guterres called for decisive action, urging a focus on people and the planet. He encouraged global citizens to contribute to this effort and concluded with a call for unity and courage, emphasizing the need to work together for justice, humanity, and peace.
Based on reporting by Africanews.