UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has underscored the urgent requirement for global unity and justice to confront critical challenges facing humanity.

From climate crisis to economic inequalities and global conflicts, Guterres highlighted the imperative for joint action during the recently concluded BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

He commended South Africa's path to unity through action and justice. He emphasized that unity is essential in addressing existential challenges, including the worsening impacts of climate change, poverty, hunger, and inequalities.

Guterres also drew attention to the risks posed by emerging technologies without a comprehensive global framework and geopolitical tensions such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He cautioned that while the world is moving towards multipolarity, it necessitates a strengthened multilateral architecture based on the UN charter and international law.

Guterres stressed the importance of reforming global governance structures to reflect contemporary power dynamics and economic realities. He warned that without these reforms, fragmentation would become inevitable. Guterres advocated for cooperation, especially in the face of crises, and urged developed countries to fulfill promises to developing nations in terms of climate action and financial support.

He concluded by calling for collective action and a united approach to addressing common problems. The BRICS Summit concluded on August 24, 2023, with the adoption of the Johannesburg II Declaration, focusing on enhancing cooperation in political, economic, and cultural spheres, as well as promoting sustainable development and a reformed multilateral system.