Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), has expressed grave concern about the massive suffering, conflict, and climate-related disasters that the world will face in 2023.
In his New Year’s speech before 2024 began, Guterres noted that 2023 was the hottest year ever and said, “Humanity is in pain.” Our world is in danger. Growing levels of hunger and poverty are crushing people. The frequency and intensity of wars are rising. And there isn’t much trust.
According to Guterres, blaming others or using violence will not advance the cause. In order to develop solutions as a group in the upcoming year, he urged humanity to come together despite differences.
“When we stand together, humanity is strongest,” he declared. The year 2024 needs to be dedicated to reestablishing optimism and trust. For common solutions, climate action, economic opportunity, and a more equitable global financial system that benefits everyone, we must put aside our differences and work together.
“We need to unite to combat the prejudice and bigotry that are destroying bridges between nations and communities. Additionally, we need to guarantee that emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are positive forces.
In addition to wishing everyone a calm start to the new year, Gutierrez pledged that the UN will continue to mobilise people worldwide in support of human rights, sustainable development, and peace.
“Let us decide to make 2024 a year of establishing confidence and optimism in our collective abilities,” he declared.
