UN chief urges unity in New Year message to tackle global crises

HAMILTON, Canada

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday issued a New Year message, urging global leaders and citizens to confront the world’s crises with unity and determination.

"Throughout 2024, hope has been hard to find. Wars are causing enormous pain, suffering and displacement. Inequalities and divisions are rife — fueling tensions and mistrust," Guterres said in a video message, highlighting that the past 10 years were the hottest on record, with 2024 among them.


Calling for bold action in 2025 to slash emissions and transition to renewable energy, he said: "This is climate breakdown — in real time. We must exit this road to ruin — and we have no time to lose."


"In 2025, countries must put the world on a safer path by dramatically slashing emissions, and supporting the transition to a renewable future," he said.

Amid challenges, Guterres said: "Even in the darkest days, I’ve seen hope power change," as he pointed to activists, humanitarian workers and developing nations fighting for justice, and scientists driving innovation.

Highlighting the 2024 adoption of the Pact for the Future as a "new push to build peace through disarmament and prevention," Guterres said the pact seeks to build peace through disarmament, reform global financial systems, and ensure technologies prioritize people and human rights.


"There are no guarantees for what’s ahead in 2025. 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. Not as a world divided. But as nations united," he said.