United Nations in Georgia

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth's environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Georgia:

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25 July 2024

Didier Trebucq assumes duties as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Georgia

On Thursday, Didier Trebucq, the new United Nations Resident Coordinator in Georgia, formally presented his credentials to the President of Georgia, H.E. Salome Zourabichvili.Mr. Trebucq expressed his appreciation to President Salome Zourabichvili for Georgia's enduring partnership with the United Nations and reiterated the UN's unwavering commitment to supporting the people of Georgia on the country’s sustainable development pathway. "I am deeply honored to lead the UN team in Georgia," he said. "I look forward to collaborating with our national and international partners to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and build a just, sustainable and peaceful future for all, especially those most in need."Earlier today, Didier Trebucq presented copies of his credentials to Mr. Lasha Darsalia, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.Photo: © MFA of GeorgiaThe United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres appointed Didier Trebucq of France as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Georgia on 17 June with the host Government’s approval.Mr. Trebucq brings more than 24 years of experience in sustainable development, climate change, social cohesion, peace and development, crisis prevention and humanitarian action with the United Nations and International Organizations. He previously served as the UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean states, covering ten countries and territories and leading a sub-regional team of more than 20 UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes. His extensive experience with the UN also includes serving as the UNDP Country Director in Brazil, the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative respectively in Peru and Guyana, and the Team Leader for Crisis Prevention and Recovery with UNDP India.Before joining the United Nations, he worked as Head of Delegation of the French Red Cross in Colombia and Ecuador, with Doctors Without Borders in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and the private sector in France. He holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development with a specialization in environmental economics from Imperial College London (UK), and a Maîtrise in Business Administration and Management from the Institut Français de Gestion (France)., filtered_html

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13 November 2024

Peace with Nature

Nestled in the scenic highlands of the Ajara Autonomous Republic, Machakhela National Park was established in 2012 to preserve the UNESCO-protected Colchic rainforests. Beyond its role as a crucial biodiversity reserve, the park offers a unique opportunity to foster eco-tourism and advance the green economy in Georgia.During a recent visit to Ajara, Didier Trebucq, the UN Resident Coordinator in Georgia, witnessed firsthand how green practices like eco-farming, renewable energy, and sustainable tourism are transforming the lives of over 3,000 residents in Machakheli Valley. These initiatives, led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with support from various donors, including the European Union, Japan, the Czech Republic, and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), are creating lasting impacts in local communities.Machakhela National Park stands as an example of how biodiversity conservation efforts can blend with community development, demonstrating that environmental protection benefits both people and nature. Bioenergy in a nutshell Leila Kakhidze is a teacher in Zeda Chukhuneti village, located in the Khelvachauri municipality. Like many rural residents, Leila has to supplement her professional work of teaching primary classes with small business activities to make a living. She owns a small family café that offers stunning views of the valley. “There is a lot that we still need to do, but things are moving fast. I am sure this small café will turn into a nice guesthouse soon,” Leila says, looking at the construction. Leila is among the Machakheli Valley residents who have installed energy-efficient stoves and introduced renewable energy in their homes thanks to UNDP support.In 2017, she was one of the first to pioneer green technologies. Being a trailblazer was not always easy; her neighbours were initially unsupportive. The community relied heavily on traditional practices such as timber harvesting. However, as time passed, almost all households gradually shifted from scepticism to support for conservation efforts. As part of the initiative, almost all households in her village have already installed solar panels which help operate the water heating system. They also shifted from firewood to energy-efficient stoves and biomass for winter heating. The push towards energy efficiency has further helped her and other residents lower their heating costs, contributing to their overall economic resilience. During a UN Resident Coordinator Didier Trebucq visit, Leila shared how switching to alternative fuel has transformed her life. "First of all, the renewable energy sources—firewood biomass, energy-efficient stoves, and solar panels—help me maintain a comfortable temperature and ensure constant hot water at home during winter, reducing annual expenses on heating. For the valley, this means that our green cover remains undamaged and our forests intact," Leila remarks.While the shift to renewable energy sources can lead to long-term savings, the initial costs associated with purchasing and installing solar panels and energy-efficient stoves may have been a barrier for some households considering similar changes. UNDP’s support contributes to overcoming these barriers. Pathway to prosperity Giorgi Salvaridze, a young entrepreneur from the picturesque village of Tskhemlari in Khelvachauri Municipality—home to Ajara's richest flora – turned his dream into a thriving eco-farming venture. Guided by a deep connection to his roots, Giorgi embraced two age-old crafts: beekeeping and winemaking. Starting with just a few beehives and a modest vineyard, he worked tirelessly to grow his enterprise.With support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the European Union, and UNDP, Giorgi received training and technical assistance for his beekeeping cooperative, “Putkara” and a diverse range of grapevines for his vineyard. Today, he produces a variety of honey, including rich Chestnut honey, and makes celebrated local wines such as Chkhaveri and Tsolikauri, quickly gaining in popularity.“We are grateful for projects like these in Machakheli Valley. Beekeeping and winemaking are more than a source of income; they show that positive change is possible, even in a small village,” Giorgi shares.Standing amidst the lush landscapes of his home, he recognizes that his work is not only building a business but nurturing a legacy that inspires others. “These projects bring new opportunities, improve well-being, and help keep people rooted in our community.”Giorgi’s entrepreneurial journey is only beginning. Among his plans is to develop agrotourism, inviting visitors to experience his village’s natural and cultural treasures. Following in his ancestors' footsteps in winemakingIn the heart of the Ajara mountains, where lush greenery meets the sky, a unique glamping experience and delicious wine await in the village of Chikuneti, located in the Khelvachauri municipality. The famous “Ilia's Marani” wine cellar, owned by Amiran Malakmadze, boasts a 10-century-long history.While still young, Amiran Malakmadze recognized the importance of preserving his family's winemaking tradition. He successfully restored his ancestors' cellar and carefully cared for maintaining the legacy of his ancestors and nurturing the historical site. UNDP assisted him in creating a wine degustation space and popularizing the site as a tourism destination. As Amiran told the UN Resident Coordinator Didier Trebucq during his visit to the region, UNDP’s assistance inspired him to start a business in his village. His eco-farm is gradually expanding. It offers wine from rare grape varieties to Georgian and international visitors. With his son Ilia’s help, the family also runs the glamping cottages that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Each accommodation is designed to harmonize with nature while offering modern amenities and delicious Ajarian cuisine. Glamping and Ilias Wine Cellar together create an unforgettable experience in Ajara—a place where nature’s beauty intertwines with rich cultural heritage. It brings hope for a better future in this mountainous region."Ilia's Marani" has been granted the status of an immovable cultural heritage monument since 2018. ------------Since the establishment of Machakhela National Park, UNDP provided technical assistance to small farmers in areas such as winemaking and beekeeping. Additionally, initiatives like a livestock insurance programme and installing electric fences have significantly reduced losses from predators, thereby supporting local agricultural practices. Thanks to UNDP support, energy-efficient stoves, and solar panels have been installed for households in the Machakhela National Park. Those interested in opening family guesthouses have been trained in touristic management and received start-up support. In 2022, with support from UNDP, a renovated exhibition hall opened in the heart of Machakhela National Park, showcasing the Park's rich history and unique nature. UNDP’s work in the Machakhela National Park is part of its wider assistance to Georgia in expanding access to green solutions and making environmental issues an integral part of development. , filtered_html

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04 December 2024

How play strengthens your child’s mental health

Play is how young children learn and make sense of the world around them. While they are having fun, they are working on critical parts of their development like building motor, cognitive, social and emotional skills. But the power of play extends beyond early learning: it also plays a key role in building your child’s mental health – and yours too! Learn why making time for playtime is both a fun and healthy thing to do.Children who play regularly with their parents are less likely to develop anxiety, depression, aggression and sleep problems.Play helps to strengthen the bond between you and your childSharing in joyful moments of fun and learning helps bring children and their caregivers closer together. As your little one's first playmate, you have the ability to provide opportunities for learning and connection right at home. When you play together, you get to see the world from your child’s perspective.By providing your child with love, comfort and attention, you are laying the foundation for the development of emotional and social skills that support their mental health and future well-being. Play helps reduce stress levelsPlaying games, dancing and singing are great ways to relieve stress for both your child and you. When you’re enjoying fun moments and laughing together, your body releases endorphins that promote a feeling of well-being.Even short periods of play together can serve as a powerful reminder for adults of their ability to support their child, and gives you an opportunity to forget about work or other commitments.Research has also shown that making time for play even protects children from the negative impacts of prolonged exposure to stress. Long periods of stressful situations can affect a child’s physical and mental health. Play and positive, supportive relationships with adults can help buffer these effects. Play helps children process difficult emotionsWhen children are dealing with complex emotional issues, it often shows up in their play. Giving children space to play allows them to work through feelings such as pain, fear or loss while being able to still act like a child. Play gives them a way to express things they are struggling with that they don’t yet have the words to fully explain. By recreating painful events repeatedly through imaginative play, little ones are trying to understand the impact of what has happened. For example, if your child has witnessed two adults fighting, they may recreate this conflict with their dolls. Play helps to build confidenceSolving problems and coming up with creative solutions during a game or while working on a puzzle give children a sense of accomplishment and competence. When you take time to play with your child, your little one is learning that they are valued and fun to be around. It is important that you give your full attention during playtime and invest in the game you are playing together. Sharing in the experience together lets your child know that they are loved and important – so smile, get involved and enjoy every moment!
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02 September 2024

Family medicine needs strengthening, says pioneering PHC doctor in Georgia

A neurologist by training, Dr Nato Shengelia now works as a primary health care (PHC) doctor in Georgia. She has received international recognition for her work as a passionate advocate for family medicine in the country. Dr Shengelia discovered her passion for family medicine after graduating from Tbilisi State Medical University, once she started actively engaging with patients. She was drawn to the all-encompassing nature of PHC, which allows physicians to take a comprehensive view of patients’ health throughout their lifetimes. She shares her insights on how to make PHC a more attractive career choice.“Georgia’s PHC system is currently weak, wages are meagre, which makes it unattractive for students to make a career in primary care and most people prefer to self-refer directly to specialists due to the lack of trust in family medicine,” she explains. However, Nato notes that the current reform by the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs aims to address these challenges.In the framework of the ongoing PHC reform, the Ministry plans to add a social worker, a nurse-midwife and a psychologist to nursing teams in remote areas. Up to 40% of Georgia’s population live in rural areas (World Bank, 2022) and it is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe. Ensuring access to health services is difficult in those hard-to-reach areas, and it is hard to recruit and retain health workers there. “The lack of nurses is particularly acute. In these remote areas, strengthening PHC services is an opportunity to deliver equal and high-quality primary health care for all,” says Nato.Promoting trustPrevention is key in PHC. Early diagnosis of disease decreases morbidity and mortality. “This includes the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and screenings, with a special focus on noncommunicable diseases and their risk factors like tobacco,” says Nato. It involves, “identifying the health condition, managing it and, if necessary, timely referral to the specialist,” she explains.Nato has been involved in various WHO projects, such as support and supervision for PHC facilities delivering virtual outpatient treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as improving management of diabetes and hypertension, setting telemedicine standards in PHC facilities and many others. All of which, she says, helped strengthen PHC in Georgia and deliver essential services.Weak PHC also results in a high financial burden for the population. Due to the unpopularity of family doctors, many patients prefer paying for a specialist. This results in high out-of-pocket payments and increased financial burden, which, in Georgia, is one of the highest among the countries of the WHO European Region. “More needs to be done to restore trust in family doctors and promote and popularize primary health care among the Georgian population,” Nato says.For her outstanding career in PHC, Nato was given the 5-star award for family doctors by the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA) Europe in 2024. This international recognition adds to her local success, and her ability to achieve this within Georgia’s challenging environment serves as an inspiration for future doctors. It demonstrates how improving access to quality care through PHC benefits patients and contributes to the sustainability of the entire health system.
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09 August 2024

Georgia Enhances Public Health and Food Exports with IAEA Support

Georgia has been working to enhance food safety and increase international trade since its government entered into an Association Agreement with the European Union (EU) in 2016. Now, having received assistance from the IAEA in cooperation with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, Georgia’s State Laboratory of Agriculture (SLA) is able to use a range of analytical techniques, including radio receptor assay, to screen foods for various chemical hazards, such as animal drug residues, and for contaminants, such as mycotoxins, which could otherwise represent risks to human health.The EU Association Agreement requires Georgia to ‘approximate’ its standards, legislation and regulations governing food safety, animal feed and animal production to the existing control mechanisms in the EU by 2027, including inspection, supervision and monitoring. This will enable Georgians to receive and consume safe and good quality foods and will also help ensure that these foods are competitive for international trade, fulfilling the requirements of EU and other markets. Animal products, such as meat and dairy/milk, are considered high-risk products and therefore, to access the EU market, certain requirements, including testing, must be met.Analysis of food samples including milk at the SLA in Georgia (Photo: A. Gulbani/SLA, Georgia)Georgia’s Ministry of Agriculture is one of several government institutions tasked with implementation of the new Association Agreement with the EU. A total of 300 regulations have been promulgated so far, and the implementation of 188, including those related to food safety, is now ongoing. The Ministry of Agriculture depends on the SLA, the national Laboratory for agriculture, to meet its obligations as regards to food safety testing. This laboratory is mandated to monitor chemical residues and related hazards in agricultural products that are a danger to consumers and the market. However, despite its mandated responsibilities, the SLA had only limited capabilities and was unable to adequately meet the needs of the Ministry and the country. For example, it could not analyse pesticides, veterinary drug residues and toxic metals in food. With the support provided through the IAEA technical cooperation programme, this has changed for the better.Following training of several SLA personnel and the provision of technical assistance, including analytical method protocols and equipment the SLA is now able to perform tests that were previously impossible. For example, new tests can be conducted to analyse fish, meat and milk for residues of drugs such as chloramphenicol and nitroimidazoles. Chloramphenicol is prohibited for use in food production in many countries due to its harmful nature to consumers including its potential to cause cancer. Other methods were established for testing pesticides in milk and water as well as residues of sulfonamide and aminoglycoside antimicrobials (associated with antimicrobial resistances) in honey. The number of samples analyzed by the SLA per year has tripled since 2021, an indication of the increased demand for SLA’s service and its improved capabilities.“Improving the sanitary and phytosanitary system, as well as approximation to European standards, enhances the safety of Georgian foods and raises trust on the global market, bolstering the growth of our country’s exports,” said Ana Gulbani, Deputy Director of the SLA in Georgia.“It was a pleasure to see that the implementation of the technical cooperation project made it possible for us to introduce new analytical methods so that the SLA can address gaps in service delivery and meet country needs,” added Gulbani.“The lack of better equipped and well-functioning laboratories is a major bottleneck to a country’s food safety control system, negatively impacting consumer safety and trade of agricultural products. We are very happy to provide technical support to our Member States to assist them in overcoming such challenges,” said Dongxin Feng, Acting Director of the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture.The radio receptor assay techniques, which have recently been acquired, utilize the comparative advantage of radioisotopes such as carbon-14 and tritium (H-3). Radiotracers, as the name suggests, can be used to trace and measure even very low levels of these hazards. A large number of food samples can be screened quickly with these techniques, saving analytical costs and time. The radiometric screening of hazards in food is complemented by chromatographic and spectrometric techniques along with stable isotopes such as deuterium (H-2) and carbon-13. By James Sasanya, IAEA Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications & Carmina Jimenez, IAEA Department of Technical Cooperation, filtered_html

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Press Release

28 January 2025

Georgia must investigate use of force by police during demonstrations: Experts

Independent human rights experts* today urged the Government of Georgia to take concrete measures to prevent further violence and to investigate allegations of excessive use of force by law enforcement officials, torture and ill-treatment, and arbitrary detention of peaceful demonstrators and media workers during protests that erupted in the country in November and December 2024.“We have received allegations of intentional physical violence, threats, intimidation and retaliation against peaceful protesters, human rights defenders and journalists by law enforcement officials in Georgia, as well as by others without uniforms or identifying insignia,” the experts said.They stressed that the scale of these allegations and the gravity of the harm reportedly inflicted on protesters and those later detained may constitute torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.“The information we have received suggests that these incidents may not have been isolated and point to command responsibility,” the experts said.There are credible reports that the police fired rubber bullets, used water cannons, pepper spray and other chemical irritants indiscriminately against the demonstrators. Hundreds of people were reportedly injured, with an unusually high proportion suffering serious head and facial injuries.Many protesters were reportedly arrested and denied access to a lawyer or to inform their families of their whereabouts. “We have received disturbing information that many detainees have been verbally abused, subjected to prolonged and repeated beatings, threatened with rape or the breaking of body parts, and denied medical care,” the experts said.They noted that the Special Investigation Service of Georgia has launched an investigation into the events reported in recent months. “To date, this investigation does not appear to have produced any outcome, while many protesters remain in detention,” they said.“Given the gravity of these events, we expect the Georgian authorities to authorise independent, impartial, transparent and effective investigations in accordance with international standards,” the experts said. “Anyone arbitrarily detained should be released, and those in need of medical attention must be provided with it.”The experts recalled that any use of force by security forces must comply with the principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, precaution and non-discrimination, and must be strictly regulated in accordance with applicable international standards. The right to life and to physical and psychological integrity must be given the highest priority, they said.“We ask the Government to report on concrete measures taken to prevent torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment including during peaceful assemblies and in places of detention,” they said.The experts have written to the Georgian government on this matter and will continue to monitor the situation closely.Dr. Alice Jill Edwards, Special Rapporteur on Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment; Mr. Morris Tidball-Binz, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial summary or arbitrary executions; Ms. Gina Romero, Special Rapporteur on the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and of Association; Ms. Mary Lawlor, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders; Ms. Irene Khan, Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression; Ms. Margaret Satterthwaite, Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers.Special Rapporteurs/Independent Experts/Working Groups are independent human rights experts appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council. Together, these experts are referred to as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council. Special Procedures experts work on a voluntary basis; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. While the UN Human Rights office acts as the secretariat for Special Procedures, the experts serve in their individual capacity and are independent from any government or organization, including OHCHR and the UN. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the UN or OHCHR. Country-specific observations and recommendations by the UN human rights mechanisms, including the special procedures, the treaty bodies and the Universal Periodic Review, can be found on the Universal Human Rights Index https://uhri.ohchr.org/en/UN Human Rights, Country Page – GeorgiaFor more information and media requests, please contact Mr. Alessandro Marra (alessandro.marra@un.org / +41 22 928 93 21)For media inquiries regarding other UN independent experts, please contact Dharisha Indraguptha (dharisha.indraguptha@un.org) or Maya Derouaz (maya.derouaz@un.org)Follow news related to the UN’s independent human rights experts on X: @UN_SPExperts, filtered_html

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Press Release

27 January 2025

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF COMMEMORATION IN MEMORY OF THE VICTIMS OF THE HOLOCAUST

This year marks the eightieth anniversary of the Holocaust’s end. We mourn the six million Jews murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators, as they sought to destroy an entire people. We grieve the Roma and Sinti, the people with disabilities, and all others enslaved, persecuted, tortured, and killed. We stand alongside victims, survivors and their families. And we renew our resolve never to forget. To allow the Holocaust to fade from memory would dishonour the past and betray the future. Remembrance is a moral act. And a call to action. To know the history of the Holocaust is to know the depths to which humanity can sink… To understand how the Nazis were able to commit their heinous crimes, with the complicity of others… And to comprehend that each of us has a solemn duty – to speak-up against hate, and to stand-up for the human rights of all. Following the hell of the Holocaust, countries came together. And they enshrined the dignity of every person in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In dark times, that document remains a shining light. Eighty years since the Holocaust’s end, antisemitism is still with us – fuelled by the same lies and loathing that made the Nazi genocide possible. And it is rising. Discrimination is rife... Hate is being whipped-up the world over…Indisputable historical facts are being distorted, diminished, and denied…And efforts are being made to recast and rehabilitate Nazis and their collaborators. We must stand up to these outrages.In these days of division – and more than a year since the appalling 7th October terror attacks by Hamas – we must hold fast to our common humanity. We must condemn antisemitism – just as we must condemn all forms of racism, prejudice and religious bigotry. And we must renew our resolve to defend the dignity and human rights of all. Those causes go to the very core of the United Nations. We will never forget – and we will never waver in that fight., filtered_html

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Press Release

25 January 2025

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE FOR THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CLEAN ENERGY

This year, renewables are projected to become the world’s largest source of electricity generation for the first time. Meanwhile, their prices keep plummeting. On the International Day of Clean Energy, we celebrate this revolution. But we also recognise the challenges ahead. The end of the fossil fuel age is certain. But governments must ensure that it comes swiftly and fairly. This is crucial to save us from the worst of the climate crisis, and to connect every person to clean energy – lifting millions out of poverty. This year offers an unparalleled opportunity for countries to align their climate ambitions with their national energy and development strategies. All countries have committed to produce new national climate action plans aligned with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. They must deliver with plans that cover all greenhouse gases and sectors; map a just fossil fuel phase-out; and contribute to the global goal to triple renewables capacity by 2030. The G20 have the largest capacities and responsibilities – they must lead. All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. But all countries must do more. We also need action to get finance flowing to the renewables revolution in emerging markets and developing economies. That includes increasing the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks, tackling the high cost of capital, and taking effective action on debt. On the International Day of Clean Energy, let’s commit to an international era of clean energy with speed, justice, and collaboration at its core., filtered_html

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Press Release

24 January 2025

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL MESSAGE FOR THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION

Education is a fundamental human right.It’s the bedrock of societies, economies, and every person’s potential. But without adequate investment, this potential will wither on the vine. It has always been shocking to me that education has been given such a low priority in many government policies and in international cooperation instruments. The theme of this year’s International Day of Education reminds us that “to invest in people, prioritize education.” Investment is critical to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4. Last year’s Transforming Education Summit gathered the world together to reimagine education systems so every learner accesses the knowledge and skills required to succeed. Over 130 countries made commitments to ensure that universal quality education becomes a central pillar of public policies and investments.A Call to Action on Educational Investment and the establishment of the International Financing Facility for Education created a fresh push on domestic and international financing.And the Summit launched a range of global initiatives to mobilize support for education in crises settings, girls’ education, foundational learning, transforming teaching, digital tools, and green education systems. Now is the time for all countries to translate their Summit commitments into concrete actions that create supportive and inclusive learning environments for all students. Now is also the time to end all discriminatory laws and practices that hinder access to education. I call on the de facto authorities in Afghanistan in particular to reverse the outrageous and self-defeating ban on access to secondary and higher education for girls.I also encourage countries to place education at the heart of preparations for the SDG Summit in 2023 and the Summit of the Future in 2024. Most of all, I urge civil society and youth to continue calling for more and better investment in quality education. Let’s keep the flame of transformation burning. Let’s deliver education systems that can support equal societies, dynamic economies and the limitless dreams of every learner in the world. , filtered_html

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Press Release

30 December 2024

The UN Secretary-General's Message for New Year

Throughout 2024, hope has been hard to find. Wars are causing enormous pain, suffering and displacement. Inequalities and divisions are rife — fueling tensions and mistrust. And today I can officially report that we have just endured a decade of deadly heat. The top ten 10 hottest years on record have happened in the last 10 years, including 2024. This is climate breakdown — in real time. We must exit this road to ruin — and we have no time to lose. In 2025, countries must put the world on a safer path by dramatically slashing emissions, and supporting the transition to a renewable future. It is essential — and it is possible. Even in the darkest days, I’ve seen hope power change. I see hope in activists — young and old — raising their voices for progress. I see hope in the humanitarian heroes overcoming enormous obstacles to support the most vulnerable people. I see hope in developing countries fighting for financial and climate justice. I see hope in the scientists and innovators breaking new ground for humanity. And I saw hope in September, when world leaders came together to adopt the Pact for the Future. The Pact is a new push to build peace through disarmament and prevention. To reform the global financial system so it supports and represents all countries. To push for more opportunities for women and young people. To build guardrails so technologies put people over profits and rights over runaway algorithms. And always, to stick to the values and principles enshrined by human rights, international law and the United Nations Charter. There are no guarantees for what’s ahead in 2025. But I pledge to stand with all those who are working to forge a more peaceful, equal, stable and healthy future for all people. Together, we can make 2025 a new beginning. Not as a world divided. But as nations united. , filtered_html

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