In his New Year’s message, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for global unity to address the pressing crises of our time, urging leaders and citizens to act with resolve. He pointed out that 2024 has been a year of severe hardship, marked by conflict, widespread inequality, and record-breaking temperatures. “Hope has been scarce,” Guterres lamented, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle climate change by drastically cutting emissions and moving towards renewable energy.
He warned that the world is on a dangerous path, with climate change manifesting “in real time,” and that there is no time to waste. He called on nations to prioritize drastic emissions reductions in 2025 to avoid further catastrophe. Despite the bleak outlook, Guterres highlighted the hope and resilience shown by activists, humanitarian workers, and scientists who continue to push for positive change.
Guterres also pointed to the Pact for the Future, adopted in 2024, as a significant step towards peace, disarmament, and financial reform. He urged that global systems must be reformed to ensure that technology serves people and protects human rights.
As he looked ahead to 2025, Guterres pledged to stand with those working to create a fairer, more peaceful, and sustainable world. “Together, we can turn the page on division and start a new chapter of unity,” he declared, rallying the world to join forces for a brighter future.
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