He insisted that “the world needs the United Nations” and highlighted its extensive work, which includes providing vital support in Gaza, advocating for girls’ education in Afghanistan, protecting civilians in Sudan and intensifying efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
“There is no way the world would be better off without our United Nations. It is worth fighting for,” he said.
Defend the Charter
The General Assembly is the main policy-making body of the UN and comprises the 193 member states, each of which has an equal vote. It meets in regular sessions from September to December and thereafter as necessary.
Unlike previous years, the President avoided exhaustively listing the upcoming meetings scheduled for the resumed session.
“My top priority today and for the next 237 days as President of the General Assembly is to defend – together with you – this institution, its Charter and the principles enshrined in it.”said Mrs. Baerbock.
“Because it is increasingly evident that We no longer all sing the same songbook.; “Not everyone is so committed to the Charter and international law.”
Renewed Commitment and Commitment
He called on Member States from all regions to join together to build an interregional alliance to protect and promote the principles of the United Nations Charter: “to defend a global order founded on international law and human rights.”
“This means taking a step forward every day. It means stand up. It means recommitting.“, said.
“It also means always striving to overcome divisions and reach a compromise, to the extent that compromise does not turn into appeasement.”
The President of the Assembly referred to the ongoing efforts to reform the United Nations and emphasized that “no reform, however major, can resolve a financial crisis if Member States do not meet their financial obligations.”
He highlighted the need for countries to pay their contributions in full and on time “because otherwise this institution cannot function and the reform will not make sense.”
New leadership
His other top priority is the selection of the next UN Secretary-General as António Guterres prepares to leave office in December.
The General Assembly appoints the head of the UN on the recommendation of the Security Council.
The selection process is already underway and Ms. Baerbock announced that Interactive dialogues with the candidates have been scheduled for the week of April 20. where they will present their vision statements.
Candidates are sought
He invited Member States to present qualified candidates early and in advance to ensure their participation in the dialogues. He encouraged countries to seriously consider nominating women.
“In times of strong headwinds for this institution, the selection process for the next Secretary General is our opportunity to send a clear message about who we are and what we stand for,” he said.
“The next Secretary General will not only be the face and voice of this institution, Our election will also tell if this organization is truly serving all of humanity.half of whom are women and girls.”
The choice of who heads the UN “will determine how we address pressing global challenges, from conflict and climate change to inequality,” he added.
“We need someone who is equal to the task at hand; who can chart a path forward while passionately defending the principles of our Charter.”