"Multilateral system is under heavy attack” - General Assembly President's Presser | United Nations

President of the United Nations General Assembly Annalena Baerbock said “We are at a more decisive crossroads than at the beginning of this 80th session. The multilateral system is not only under pressure; the multilateral system is under heavy attack.” Speaking to reporters at UN Headquarters in New York today (14 Jan), Annalena Baerbock said her priorities for the remainder of the session focus on institutional defense and reform. She said, “I invited Member States to symbolically recommit to our shared principles and values by signing the 80th Anniversary Charter poster ahead of Charter Day.” She added Member States echoed that call. Baerbock said changes in global politics require new approaches. She said, “The political and diplomatic ecosystem has undergone drastic changes, and we can't expect the old ways of working to suffice.” Baerbock said Member States are engaging with reform efforts, “The UN80 initiative, while not coming at the most desirable time or in the best condition, is overdue.” Baerbock said the selection of the next Secretary-General is another priority this year, with interactive dialogues with candidates are scheduled for April. She said the process will include Member States and civil society. PGA said, “Our choice of who will lead this organization is a chance to send a clear message in this turbulent time about who we are and what the United Nation stands for.”


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