UN Calls For Global Cooperation Amid Rising Conflicts, Inequality

Monrovia, Liberia— United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on countries to strengthen international cooperation and uphold international law amid growing conflicts, widening inequalities and rapid technological change.

 In his message marking UN Day, read in Liberia by UN Resident Coordinator Christine Umotoni on Monday, Guterres warned that mounting global challenges require countries to renew their commitment to peace, development and human rights.

 “Our world is shaken by conflict, battered by crisis, scarred by rising inequalities, and transformed by technologies speeding faster than our ability to govern them,” the message stated.

 Guterres said the United Nations, which marks 81 years since its establishment, remains essential to addressing global challenges through diplomacy, humanitarian assistance and international cooperation.

 He noted that the organization has spent decades working to resolve disputes peacefully, combat poverty and hunger, protect human rights and assist people affected by war, disasters and displacement.

The Secretary-General also highlighted the UN’s role in promoting gender equality, expanding opportunities for women and girls, safeguarding public health and ensuring that countries have a voice in international affairs.

 Against this background, he urged member states to reaffirm the principles that led to the establishment of the United Nations.

 “Dialogue over division. Cooperation over confrontation. Solidarity over fear,” Guterres said.

 He further called on countries to uphold the UN Charter and international law while strengthening the organization’s ability to respond to emerging global challenges.

 “Now more than ever, let us stand firm in our resolve to uphold the United Nations Charter and international law, and let's work to strengthen the United Nations to best serve people and meet challenges of our future,” the message added.

 Meanwhile, UN Resident Coordinator Christine Umotoni used the occasion to congratulate Liberia on its progress toward assuming the presidency of the UN Security Council, describing it as an important milestone for the country.

 “Joining the UN Security Council on the road to the Presidency of the Security Council is not an easy one, but here we are. We congratulate Liberia for this milestone,” Umotoni said.

 She commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and the government for their support for the UN Day celebration, which was held on the grounds of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the first time.

 Umotoni also praised cooperation between the government and the UN Country Team and called for continued engagement among government institutions, civil society, the private sector and other partners.

 She particularly recognized young people who participated in the celebration, including members of the Youth Advisory Panel and Model United Nations, for their contributions toward building a better future.

 The UN Resident Coordinator disclosed that this would be her final UN Day celebration in Liberia, although she expects to remain in the country for approximately three more months.

 The annual observance of UN Day commemorates the establishment of the United Nations and highlights its continuing work to promote peace, development and human rights.