Highlights of the UN System for Monday, 29 December 2025: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight

As we enter the new year, the world stands at a crossroads. Chaos and uncertainty surround us. Division. Violence. Climate breakdown. And systemic violations of international law. A retreat from the very principles that bind us together as a human family. People everywhere are asking: Are leaders even listening? Are they ready to act. As we turn the page on a turbulent year, one fact speaks louder than words: Global military spending has soared to 2.7 trillion dollars, growing by almost 10%. That is thirteen times more than all development aid, equivalent to the entire Gross Domestic Product of Africa. All, while conflict rages at levels unseen since World War II. On this new year, let’s resolve to get our priorities straight. A safer world begins by investing more in fighting poverty and less in fighting wars. Peace must prevail. It’s clear the world has the resources to lift lives, heal the planet, and secure a future of peace and justice. In 2026, I call on leaders everywhere: Get serious. Choose people and planet over pain. And I urge everyone who hears this message: Play your part. Our future depends on our collective courage to act. This new year, let’s rise together: For justice. For humanity. For peace. https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/statements/2025-12-29/secretary-generals-new-year-message

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General - on the adoption of amendments to the Law to Cease UNRWA Operations by the Knesset of Israel The Secretary-General condemns the adoption by the Knesset on 29 December 2025 of amendments to the Law to Cease UNRWA Operations. These amendments seek to further impede UNRWA’s ability to operate and carry out its mandated activities. The Law and its amendments are inconsistent with the status and international legal framework applicable to UNRWA and must be immediately repealed. UNRWA is an integral part of the United Nations. The Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations remains applicable to UNRWA, its property and assets, and to its officials and other personnel. Property used by UNRWA is inviolable. The Secretary-General recalls Israel’s obligations under the Charter of the United Nations and the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations. In its Advisory Opinion of 22 October 2025, the International Court of Justice concluded that Israel is under an obligation to ensure full respect for the privileges and immunities accorded to the United Nations, including UNRWA, and its personnel, in and in relation to the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The Secretary-General reiterates his strong support for UNRWA, which plays an indispensable role in serving the Palestinian people – in Gaza and elsewhere in the region. UNRWA’s continued operations in Gaza contribute to the effective implementation of Security Council resolution 2803 (2025) and the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict on the ground. https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/2025-12-31

The Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the recent escalation in Venezuela, culminating with today’s United States military action in the country, which has potential worrying implications for the region. Independently of the situation in Venezuela, these developments constitute a dangerous precedent. The Secretary-General continues to emphasize the importance of full respect - by all - of international law, including the UN Charter. He’s deeply concerned that the rules of international law have not been respected. The Secretary-General calls on all actors in Venezuela to engage in inclusive dialogue, in full respect of human rights and the rule of law. https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/2026-01-03

Highlights of the UN System for Wednesday, 31 December 2025: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the Israeli authorities’ announcement to suspend the operations of several international non-governmental organizations in the occupied Palestinian territory. He calls for this measure to be reversed, stressing that international non-governmental organizations are indispensable to life-saving humanitarian work and that the suspension risks undermining the fragile progress made during the ceasefire. This announcement comes on top of earlier restrictions that have already delayed critical food, medical, hygiene and shelter supplies from entering Gaza. This recent action will further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians. The Secretary-General underscores that, pursuant to its obligations under international humanitarian law, Israel must allow and facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for all civilians in need. He reiterates that all humanitarian partners must be able to operate safely and in line with humanitarian principles. https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/2026-01-02

Highlights of the UN System for Friday, 2 January 2026: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight