As the world enters 2026 amid growing crises, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a compelling New Year appeal, urging global leaders to redirect focus and resources from conflict to peace, people, and sustainable development.
“The world stands at a crossroads,” Guterres warned, highlighting how ongoing wars, climate crises, and systemic violations of international law are undermining public trust in leadership worldwide. “People everywhere are asking: Are leaders even listening? Are they ready to act?”
Global Suffering on a Massive Scale
Guterres underscored the magnitude of current global challenges: over a quarter of humanity lives in conflict-affected areas, more than 200 million people require humanitarian aid, and nearly 120 million have been forcibly displaced by wars, disasters, or persecution.
Against this backdrop, he stressed a glaring imbalance in global priorities. “Global military spending has surged to $2.7 trillion, nearly 10 percent higher than last year,” he noted. This figure is thirteen times larger than total global development aid and matches the entire GDP of Africa. If trends continue, military spending could exceed $6.6 trillion by 2035, even as humanitarian needs rise.
A Path to Hope
Despite these alarming statistics, Guterres emphasized that solutions are achievable. In September 2025, the UN released the report The Security We Need: Rebalancing Military Spending for a Sustainable and Peaceful Future, which demonstrates how modest shifts in spending could transform lives.
Less than 4% of current military expenditure could end world hunger by 2030.
Just over 10% could fully vaccinate every child globally.
Redirecting 15% could cover the annual costs of climate adaptation in developing countries.
“It’s clear the world has the resources to lift lives, heal the planet, and secure a future of peace and justice,” Guterres said.
A Call to Action
Looking ahead, he issued a direct appeal to world leaders:
“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.”
Addressing individuals worldwide, he added, “Play your part. Our future depends on our collective courage to act.”
“In 2026,” he concluded, “I call on leaders everywhere: get serious. Choose people and the planet over pain. Let’s rise together – for justice, for humanity, for peace.”
UN Goals Supported Through This Initiative
No Poverty
Zero Hunger
Good Health and Well-being
Quality Education
Gender Equality
Clean Water and Sanitation
Affordable and Clean Energy
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Reduced Inequalities
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Responsible Consumption and Production
Climate Action
Life Below Water
Life on Land
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Partnerships for the Goals
