“World crying for peace” – Guterres urges global communities to silence the guns

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a passionate appeal to global communities, urging immediate action to end violence, mend divisions, and restore hope amid rising global instability.

As world leaders convene in New York for the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Guterres warned that the world is “crying out for peace” and that the moment to act is now.

“Lives are being ripped apart, childhoods extinguished, and basic human dignity discarded, amidst the cruelty and degradations of war,” the Secretary-General stated in a message ahead of the high-level sessions.

“All they want is peace,” he emphasized, speaking on behalf of millions affected by conflict, as leaders from 193 UN member states and two observer states gather for one of the most critical summits in recent years.

This year’s UN General Assembly high-level week is focused on pressing global issues—from armed conflict and climate change to gender inequality and the complex promises and risks of artificial intelligence.

Guterres pointed out that the effects of war are not limited to conflict zones, as violence drives displacement, poverty, and political instability across borders.

“We must silence the guns, end the suffering, build bridges and create stability and prosperity,” he urged.

Drawing a direct connection between lasting peace and development, Guterres noted that nine out of the ten countries struggling most with development are also facing conflict.

He further cautioned against rising racism and dehumanizing rhetoric, calling instead for dialogue rooted in dignity and mutual respect.

“The language of respect” must prevail, he said, stressing that this year’s gathering comes at a critical moment when divisions are deepening and global uncertainty is mounting.

“Where we have peace, we have hope. Peace cannot wait; our work starts now,” Guterres concluded. (NAN)