The 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) commenced on September 19, 2023, amid a backdrop of global crises, including the conflict in Ukraine, escalating climate disasters, public health concerns, and a prevailing sense of geopolitical instability. This year’s UNGA theme revolves around “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all.”
One conspicuous aspect of this year’s UNGA session is the absence of world leaders from major nations, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Notably, leaders of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council—United States, Russia, China, France, and Britain—have opted not to attend, with France and Britain sending ministerial delegations instead.
The spotlight falls primarily on U.S. President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and a select few others who have chosen to participate actively. President Biden, during his UNGA address, extended support to Ukraine, emphasizing the significance of maintaining the nation’s territorial integrity. He made it clear that Ukraine’s security concerns impact global stability.
Additionally, President Biden highlighted significant achievements, such as the establishment of an economic corridor connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe, marking a groundbreaking effort. This corridor aims to bolster economic ties and connectivity between these regions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres also seized the opportunity to call for a reform of the UN Security Council, advocating for a council that aligns with the contemporary world’s realities and is based on principles of equity. Guterres emphasized the pressing need for global cooperation, given the widening divides within nations, the threat to democracy, the rise of authoritarianism, growing inequalities, and the surge in hate speech.
Regarding climate change, the UN chief stressed the urgency of phasing out coal, oil, and gas in a fair and equitable manner while significantly expanding renewable energy sources to limit the global temperature rise.
The notable absences of leaders at this UNGA session raise questions about the state of global diplomacy and cooperation. It is evident that the world faces mounting challenges, and the absence of key leaders at such a critical gathering raises concerns about the ability to collectively address these pressing issues.
As the UNGA session unfolds, the world watches closely, hoping that meaningful discussions and collaborative actions will emerge to tackle the multifaceted challenges that threaten global peace and prosperity.
