The 79th session of the UN General Assembly was held Sept. 22-24 in New York City with the theme, Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity for present and future generations.
Foreign Affairs Sec. Enrique Manalo led the Philippine delegation, and during the open debate on Leadership for Peace, highlighted that the Philippines looks ahead to decisive outcomes with respect to the reform of the UN Security Council, and the review of the Peace-building architecture stating: “Rule of law is an absolute necessity as we go forward.”
In addition, Permanent Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo reiterated the Philippines’ call for the UN Alliance of Civilizations to strengthen synergies with organizations such as the UN Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization, the UN Women, the International Organization of Migration, the International Labor Organization, and the Association of South East Asian Nations in implementing advocacy, policy, and programming activities that foster intercultural dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation.
This year, the main event of the high-level week was the Summit of the Future where the heads of States and Governments discussed where the outcome documents (including the Pact for the Future) are expected to be agreed, and four interactive dialogues around the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and the challenges of our time.
In 2015, the UN General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The goals build on the vital principle of “leaving no one behind”, and emphasizing a holistic approach to achieving sustainable development for all, such as 1) No Poverty, 2) Zero Hunger,
3) Good Health & Well-being 4) Quality Education, 5) Gender Equality;
6) Clean Water & Sanitation, 7) Affordable & Clean Energy, 8) Decent Work & Economic Growth, 9) Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure, 10) Reduced Inequality;
11) Sustainable Cities & Communities, 12) Responsible Consumption & Production,
13) Climate Action, 14) Life below Water,
15) Life on Land;
16) Peace & Justice and Strong Institutions, and
17) Partnerships to achieve the Goals.
The 79th UNGA session prioritizes the global effort to accelerate progress towards the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and underscores the urgent need for enhanced international cooperation, while also tackling the impacts of ongoing conflicts and global health crises, with impactful in-depth interviews and dialogues on global issues that matter to people everywhere.
However, against this intended backdrop, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country is “winning” on multiple fronts, and would attack Iran and its proxies anywhere in the Middle East.
Many of the delegates in the U.N. hall stood up, and swiftly left in a public snub at the start of his address.
Meanwhile, in Russia, Vladimir Putin vowed to continue his war efforts in Ukraine, and further escalate his standoff with the west.
Iran also sent 180 missiles to Israel, who vowed to retaliate.
Under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, the Security Council can take enforcement measures to maintain or restore international peace and security.
Such measures range from economic sanctions to international military action.
The Council also establishes UN Peacekeeping Operations and Special Political Missions.
Can the UN pave the way to give peace a chance?
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