Expected Challenges and Need for Reform for the United Nations' New Secretary-General
Following the farewell speech of outgoing United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, critical issues such as organizational reform and financial crisis awaiting the new leader are addressed.
The new United Nations secretary-general is preparing to take over an aging organization controlled by post-World War II powers and struggling with financial crises as of January 1.
Farewell Message and Calls from Guterres
Delivering his farewell speech at the annual global gathering in the General Assembly, Antonio Guterres emphasized the world's need for a strong and resolute United Nations.
Guterres called upon his successor and member states to adhere to the rule of law, end wars, combat inequality, accelerate climate action, and govern artificial intelligence.
Financial Difficulties and the Status of the Organization
The eighty-one-year-old institution faces a financial crisis while simultaneously struggling to end wars in Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza.
The risky financial situation created by unpaid contributions from the US has necessitated cuts in major humanitarian and development programs.
Restructuring Process for the 21st Century
For the new secretary-general whose election process is ongoing, the top priority will be restructuring the UN according to the twenty-first century rather than the post-World War II era.
Kizito Byenkya from the Open Society Foundations stated that the new leader will face a massive reform process and pressure to actively mediate global conflicts.
Importance of Security Council Reform
Reforming the Security Council remains challenging due to deep disagreements and veto powers among permanent members such as the US, Russia, China, the UK, and France.
Ghanaian President John Mahama stated that Security Council reform is of vital importance for the legitimacy and survival of the UN amid an environment of increasing global fragmentation.