In his New Year video message, the Secretary-General acknowledged the many challenges facing humanity, including ongoing wars, inequalities, divisions and the accelerating climate crisis. He highlighted the urgency of addressing climate breakdown, stating, “the top ten hottest years on record have happened in the last 10 years, including 2024.”
Mr. Guterres stressed the need for countries to dramatically slash emissions and transition to a renewable future in 2025. He also highlighted the importance of implementing the Pact for the Future, a new initiative adopted by world leaders in September to build peace, reform the global financial system, and promote gender and youth equality.
Despite the challenges, the Secretary-General said he remains hopeful, citing the work of activists, humanitarian workers, developing countries striving for justice, scientists and innovators, and the potential of the Pact for the Future.
“There are no guarantees for what’s ahead in 2025,” he said. “But I pledge to stand with all those who are working to forge a more peaceful, equal, stable and healthy future for all people.”
“Together, we can make 2025 a new beginning,” he added, “Not as a world divided. But as nations united.”