In his final address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, September 22, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on world leaders to address urgent global challenges by regulating artificial intelligence, bringing an end to ongoing wars, and confronting climate change. The speech marked the culmination of Guterres’ decade-long tenure, ahead of the conclusion of his second five-year term on December 31.
Focus on Artificial Intelligence Risks
A major theme of Guterres’ address was the urgent need for global oversight of artificial intelligence technologies. He urged the nations leading the “technological revolution” to cooperate on testing, evaluation, and sharing information regarding emerging safety risks.
“Those countries leading this technological revolution must… work towards common safeguards that protect us all,” Guterres stated. He pressed leaders to advance responsible pacing for AI and advocated for a multilateral AI risk management framework backed by independent oversight. Guterres’ calls align with preparations by the 15-member UN Security Council to host a briefing with AI leaders regarding the powerful technology.
Global Conflicts and Climate Change
Addressing the 130 world leaders gathered in New York, Guterres defended a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians and pushed for immediate action on the climate crisis, asserting that “polluters must pay”. His remarks received sustained applause from the delegates.
Commenting on the expanding conflict in the Middle East and persisting tensions in critical shipping routes, Guterres stressed the need for “de-escalation and dialogue.” He stated, “The fighting must stop. Humanitarian aid must flow. And navigational rights and freedoms must be fully restored in accordance with international law”.
Institutional Reform and Legacy
Throughout his speech, Guterres acknowledged the gridlock within the United Nations and highlighted that current global institutions “continue to reflect the power realities and interests of a largely bygone age.” He warned that mechanisms for collective action are under growing strain, as major powers have increasingly bypassed the organization and the US slashed funding. Notably, Several key leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, skipped the diplomatic gathering.
Guterres concluded his address by bidding farewell to global leaders and reaffirming his lifelong commitment to diplomacy. “Wherever I will be, whatever I will be doing – I will keep championing the conviction that peace is possible,” he said, pledging to continue standing up for the values of the UN Charter