Guterres calls for G20 action on climate crisis

UN Secretary-General António Guterres calls on G20 leaders to tackle global crises, push for peace, reform international systems, and take urgent climate action ahead of the Rio Summit. “Our times demand bold leadership and swift solutions,” he urged.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged G20 leaders to act swiftly on global crises, emphasizing the need for international reforms and climate action ahead of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. 

Speaking after the COP29 climate conference in Baku, he thanked Brazil for hosting and highlighted the interconnected challenges of conflicts, climate change, and global inequities. Guterres called for an updated UN Security Council, reforms in the global financial system, and immediate efforts for peace in Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan.

On climate, he warned of catastrophic consequences unless emissions are cut drastically, holding the G20 accountable as they produce 80% of global emissions.

He also stressed tackling disinformation and advancing AI governance through the Global Digital Compact. "G20 leaders must lead," Guterres concluded.

Copied