Monrovia, Liberia— President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has called for a United Nations capable of responding to emerging global challenges, including artificial intelligence, climate change, irregular migration, growing inequality, and increasing frustration among young people.

Addressing the celebration of United Nations Day in Monrovia on Monday, President Boakai said the international organization faces a critical moment in its history and must remain relevant to the needs of both present and future generations.

He said the world is undergoing significant changes that require countries to strengthen cooperation and find collective solutions to problems that extend beyond national borders.

“We are entering an age shift. Artificial intelligence, multipolarity, climate change, irregular migration, deepening inequality, and frustration of our young people transcend national borders,” the President said.

According to President Boakai, the challenges confronting the world today differ from those that dominated international discussions when the United Nations Charter was signed.

He recalled that ending war was a central concern when the organization was established, but argued that the present global environment requires the UN to help countries address a wider range of interconnected problems.

“When the Charter was signed, the world's foremost concern was ending this scourge of war. Today, we need the United Nations to help nations address challenges that no country can solve alone,” he said.

The President stressed that international cooperation remains important as countries confront the effects of climate change, technological advancement, migration, and widening social and economic inequalities.

His remarks come as Liberia prepares to participate in deliberations of the UN Security Council following its election in 2025 to serve a two-year term as a non-permanent member.

President Boakai said Liberia’s position provides an opportunity to contribute to discussions and decisions that will influence the future of the United Nations and the broader international system.

He also emphasized that the concerns of developing countries must receive greater attention in international decision-making.

“For developing countries like Liberia, the stakes are especially high,” he said.

The President said Liberia needs an international organization that advances women's rights and empowerment, addresses poverty, promotes sustainable development, and ensures that vulnerable nations are heard.

He said the changing international order presents both an opportunity and a responsibility for Liberia to contribute to discussions that will shape global priorities for generations to come.

“That international order is being shaped now, and Liberia is at the table,” President Boakai said.

He added that Liberia recognizes the responsibility that comes with participating in decisions affecting the future of the United Nations and the international system.

The President further called for continued multilateral cooperation, saying nations must work together to advance peace, security, and shared prosperity.

In his closing remarks, he reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to international cooperation and expressed hope for a world in which every nation and every people can prosper in dignity.