News (Consolidated) - UNSOM

UN Secretary-General’s opening remarks at virtual press conference on the COVID-19 crisis “We are facing a global health crisis unlike any in the 75-year history of the United Nations — one that is spreading human suffering, infecting the global economy and upending people’s lives. A global…

New York, 7 May 2020 I send warm wishes to all celebrating the Day of Vesak, a sacred occasion to millions of Buddhists around the world. As we honour the birth, enlightenment and passing of Lord Buddha, we can all be inspired by his teachings. And as the human family suffers the impacts of the…

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL'S GLOBAL APPEAL TO ADDRESS AND COUNTER COVID-19-RELATED HATE SPEECH COVID-19 does not care who we are, where we live, what we believe or about any other distinction. We need every ounce of solidarity to tackle it together. Yet the pandemic continues to unleash a tsunami of hate…

New York, 8-9 May 2020 At this time of remembrance and reconciliation, we pay tribute to the millions of people who lost their lives in the Second World War and remember their sacrifices. We must never forget the Holocaust and the other grave and horrendous crimes committed by the Nazis. The victory…

New York, 6 May 2020 The COVID-19 crisis is affecting every aspect of our societies, revealing the extent of exclusion that the most marginalized members of society experience. Today, I would like to highlight how the pandemic is affecting the world’s 1 billion people with disabilities. Even under…

Excellencies, distinguished panel members, dear friends, Good morning, good afternoon and good evening. It is a great pleasure to speak to you, and I hope you are all keeping safe and well. We mark World Press Freedom Day every year as an important moment to focus on media freedom and the protection…

New York, 13 May 2020 Mental health is at the core of our humanity. It enables us to lead rich and fulfilling lives and to participate in our communities But the COVID-19 virus is not only attacking our physical health; it is also increasing psychological suffering. Grief at the loss of loved ones…

New York, 17 May, 2020 Information technology can be a beacon of hope, allowing billions of people around the world to connect. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these connections – with loved ones, with schools and colleges, with workplaces, with healthcare professionals and essential supplies– are…

New York, 17 May 2020 The world marks International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT) at a time of great challenge. Among the many severe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic is the increased vulnerability of LGBTI people. Already facing bias, attacks and murder simply for who…

New York, 18 May 2020 Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues and friends, Thank you for this opportunity to address you on the greatest challenge of our age. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated our global fragility. Despite the enormous scientific and technological advances of recent…