In a compelling address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali emphasized the urgent need for bold and decisive action to tackle the multifaceted crises gripping the world. Against the backdrop of a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, President Ali highlighted the Caribbean’s vulnerability to climate change, alongside the broader global challenges of armed conflicts, food insecurity, and economic instability. He called for introspection within the UN, questioning its effectiveness in addressing escalating geopolitical tensions and humanitarian disasters. ‘Where are we at 80?’ Ali asked, pointing to the intensification of conflicts, worsening food insecurity, growing displacement, and the existential threat of climate change. He expressed deep concern over the erosion of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to shrinking development aid and reduced peacekeeping budgets. Ali also condemned the ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan, and Haiti, labeling the situation in Gaza as ‘mass extermination’ and urging immediate action to halt the violence and advance a two-state solution. Additionally, he warned of emerging threats such as cybercrime, misinformation, and transnational organized crime. As the UN commemorates its 80th anniversary, President Ali joined a growing number of leaders voicing frustration over the organization’s inability to maintain global peace and security in an increasingly volatile world.
President Ali urges bold action on global crises at UN General Assembly
