In our world today, we have one common enemy: COVID-19. It is now time for a sharpened push for peace to bring about a global ceasefire, – UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
24 October 2020
Dear friends,
The 75th anniversary of the United Nations falls in the midst of a global pandemic. Our founding mission is more important than ever.
To promote human dignity.
Protect human rights.
Respect international law.
And save humanity from war.
When the pandemic took place, I called for a global ceasefire.
In our world today, we have one common enemy: COVID-19.
It is now time for an increased push for peace to bring about a global ceasefire. The clock is ticking.
We must also make peace with our planet.
The climate emergency threatens life itself.
We need to mobilize the whole world to achieve carbon neutrality – net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
A growing number of countries and companies have already promised to achieve this goal.
All over the world, we must do more to end the suffering of people suffering from poverty, inequality, hunger and hatred – and to fight discrimination based on race, religion, gender or any other distinction. The months of pandemic increased violently against women and girls.
We must build on progress. A remarkable worldwide collaboration is underway for a safe, affordable and accessible COVID-19 vaccine for all.
The Sustainable Development Goals give us an inspiring blueprint for better recovery.
We have big challenges. With global solidarity and cooperation, we can overcome it.
This is what the United Nations is about.
On this anniversary, I ask people everywhere to go along.
The United Nations is not just with you …
The United Nations belongs to you and is you: “we the nations”.
Let us together uphold the enduring values of the United Nations Charter.
Let us build on our progress through the decades.
Let us realize our shared vision of a better world for all.