UN Chief Urges AI Regulation and End to Conflicts in Final Assembly Address

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered his final address to the General Assembly on Tuesday, calling for international regulation of artificial intelligence, an end to ongoing conflicts, urgent climate action, and significant reforms to UN institutions. Guterres’ second five-year term concludes on December 31.

During his speech, Guterres emphasized the need for global oversight of AI, stating that countries at the forefront of technological innovation must cooperate on safety measures. He urged leaders to work towards a multilateral framework for managing AI risks, with credible and independent supervision.

The Secretary-General also addressed the challenges facing the United Nations, noting internal gridlock as nearly 130 world leaders gathered in New York, while some key leaders, including those from China, South Africa, India, and Germany, were absent. Guterres also reiterated his support for a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and insisted that polluters must be held accountable for climate change impacts.

Referring to his decade-long tenure, Guterres highlighted his efforts to position the UN as both a mediator in global conflicts and a key player in the governance of emerging technologies. Throughout his speech, he called for de-escalation and dialogue in the Middle East, stressing the importance of restoring peace and ensuring humanitarian assistance, particularly in regions like the Red Sea coast and the Strait of Hormuz.

Guterres acknowledged criticism directed towards the UN system, admitting that many global institutions still mirror outdated power structures. He used his farewell to reaffirm his commitment to the principles of the UN Charter, declaring, “I will continue to stand up for the values of the United Nations Charter and I will never, ever give up.”