What to Expect from UNGA 79?

Mohammad Imran Hossain, UN Headquarters:
The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) comes at a critical juncture for international diplomacy and multilateralism. As global leaders from 193 UN Member States gather in New York for High-Level Week starting on September 24, they will confront a range of pressing global issues — from climate change to digital governance. This year’s session is particularly significant, given the ongoing humanitarian crises, the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and escalating geopolitical tensions.

A Turning Point for the UN

Michelle Milford Morse, Vice President for Girls and Women Strategy at the UN Foundation, highlighted that the UN is at an “inflection point.” Created in the 1940s, the UN faces growing pressure to evolve and address 21st-century challenges like artificial intelligence, digital equity, and climate action.

Key Themes at UNGA 79

Summit of the Future: Preceding High-Level Week is the two-day Summit of the Future, where Member States will outline strategies for the UN to adapt to emerging global issues. The centerpiece of the summit is the “Pact for the Future,” which addresses areas such as global governance, digital rights, and sustainable financing, with a special focus on supporting low-income nations.

Technology and Governance: The future of global cooperation will largely depend on effectively managing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. Discussions will focus on the Global Digital Compact, which seeks to bridge the digital divide, protect human rights online, and establish international governance frameworks for AI and space exploration.

Climate Change and Health: Climate change and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are set to dominate discussions at UNGA 79. Leaders are expected to announce new commitments to tackle rising sea levels and the “silent pandemic” of AMR, which poses a growing threat to global health and environmental security.

Youth and Future Generations: This year’s assembly will place special emphasis on future generations, particularly in Africa, where much of the world’s youth population is concentrated. The recently established UN Youth Office will be showcased as a model of intergenerational leadership and inclusion.

Calls for Reform

Experts argue that the UN, founded in the aftermath of World War II, must adapt to the complexities of the modern world. George Hampton, Executive Director for Global Policy and Multilateral Initiatives, pointed out the inadequacy of a 1940s-era institution to address current challenges. Growing demands for reform of key UN bodies, such as the Security Council and international financial systems, aim to ensure a more responsive approach to global crises, from pandemics to climate emergencies.

Global Impact

While some critics claim that UNGA often results in “talk behind closed doors,” supporters like Caroline Kleinfox, Director of U.S. SDG Policy Planning, emphasize the necessity of open dialogue in tackling global challenges. The UN’s ongoing efforts — from humanitarian aid to development initiatives — remain essential in regions grappling with severe hardship.

Looking Ahead

As leaders converge for UNGA 79, the stakes are extraordinarily high. Decisions made over these pivotal weeks will determine the direction of global cooperation, shaping the solutions to challenges that will affect billions, including future generations.

UNGA 79 is not just a diplomatic assembly — it is a forum for action, reform, and adaptation. It presents a unique opportunity to rethink the UN’s role in the modern world and ensure its relevance in the decades to come.