War and geopolitical divisions constitute a ‘dangerous erosion’ of the world order, the UN chief has warned

Addressing high levels Security Council debate held by China, Guterres described this UN Charter as a “guide to the survival of humanity” but its core principles are now under “immense pressure” along with deepening geopolitical divisions and increasing conflicts in various regions.

“We are now facing the highest number of conflicts since the founding of the UN,” he said notified ministers and diplomats in the Council chamber, where more than 100 countries are expected to speak during the meeting signature debate chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Council President for May.

The meeting comes amid growing concerns about the future of multilateralism and rising tensions among major powers over the interpretation and application of international law.

Guterres warned that a “dangerous erosion of respect for international law” was taking place, with basic principles such as sovereignty, territorial integrity and the prohibition of the use of force “being challenged or ignored.”

“Violations are not answered. Impunity spreads,he said.

Testing time

The UN Secretary General pointed to a series of interconnected global crises that have collectively tested the resilience of the international system created after the Second World War.

Among them are increasing geopolitical distrust, accelerating military spending, artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous weapons, attacks on human rights, widening inequality, and the worsening climate crisis.

“These seven challenges are interconnected,he said. “And they are testing the durability of the Charter itself.”

He also warned that divisions within the Security Council were weakening its ability to respond effectively to the global crisis.

“Often this Council fails to act with unity and purpose,he said. “When the Security Council is divided, the consequences will be much greater [this Chamber].”

Wars in Ukraine, the Middle East and beyond

The UN Secretary General referred to the ongoing war and rising tensions in Ukraine, the Middle East and Sudan, and warned against further escalation.

He said he was “deeply concerned” by Russia’s recent announcement that it intended to launch “consistent and systemic strikes” against Ukrainian defense targets following reports of Ukrainian drone attacks on college buildings and dormitories in Starobilsk, in territory occupied by Russia.

“Now, more than ever, it is important to avoid an escalation of a conflict that has already taken a heavy toll on civilians.he said.

Guterres also cited Israel’s announcement of expanded operations in Lebanon, continued ceasefire violations in Gaza, and uncertainty surrounding negotiations between the United States and Iran.

World arms race

Beyond these conflicts, the Secretary-General warned of what he described as a destabilizing global arms race along with cuts to development funding and humanitarian aid.

“Global military spending is at a record high, even as production of lethal weapons becomes cheaper and resources for development and humanitarian needs are cut,he said.

At the heart of his remarks was a call to restore trust in multilateral institutions through diplomacy, accountability and reform.

Avoid double standards

He urged member states to invest more in conflict prevention and mediation. uphold international law “without selectivity” or “double standards”and reforming global institutions to reflect modern geopolitical realities.

“Global institutions must reflect the reality that exists today – not the reality that existed in 1945,” he said, pointing to the absence of permanent African representation on the Security Council as a “historic injustice” that undermines the institutions’ legitimacy and effectiveness.

Guterres ended his speech with a direct appeal to Security Council members to go beyond mere rhetoric and act collectively to maintain international peace and security.

“The world is watching – and demanding action, not just words,he said.