New York, NY – September 23, 2025 – The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) is officially underway, with the highly anticipated High-Level General Debate commencing today, September 23, 2025. This pivotal week brings together over 150 world leaders at UN Headquarters in New York, aiming to tackle the globe’s most pressing challenges under the overarching theme, “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights.” The annual gathering, which began on September 9 with organizational work, marks a significant milestone for the United Nations, now in its 80th year, and occurs at a moment when global cooperation is being tested on multiple fronts.
The Global Stage: What Happens at UNGA 2025
The General Debate, the core of UNGA’s High-Level Week, provides a platform for heads of state and government to deliver speeches, outline their national priorities, and debate critical international issues. The debate is scheduled to run from September 23 to September 27, resuming on September 29. Traditionally, Brazil delivers the first address, followed by the United States as the host nation. While a voluntary 15-minute time limit is set for each speech, many leaders often exceed this duration. The sessions are broadcast live, allowing global audiences to follow the crucial discussions.
Crises and Conflicts Take Spotlight
This year’s assembly convenes amidst a backdrop of heightened international tensions and persistent global crises. The ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine are expected to dominate many speeches and diplomatic discussions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stark warning about a “global crisis” encompassing war, climate change, and inequality, urging leaders to “turn the tide” and recommit to multilateralism. Calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages are trending topics, with leaders from Qatar and Palestine expected to strongly condemn recent Israeli actions and the international community’s response. The situations in Sudan, Haiti, and Myanmar are also on the agenda, highlighting the complex security landscape the UN seeks to navigate.
‘Better Together’: Reflecting on 80 Years and Charting the Future
The theme of the 80th anniversary, “Better together,” underscores the urgency of reinvigorating global cooperation and delivering on the promises of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With many SDG targets off track, leaders will focus on accelerating progress towards a more peaceful, developed, and rights-respecting world. The UN’s 80-year history serves as a backdrop for assessing past achievements and charting a course for a more inclusive and responsive multilateral system.
Prominent Speakers and Key Agendas
Several high-profile leaders are capturing attention at this year’s UNGA. U.S. President Donald Trump is set to deliver his first UN address since returning to office, with expectations that he will articulate his “America First” policies and potentially critique globalist institutions. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will champion Global South perspectives and UN reform. Other key speakers include Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, addressing the Gaza conflict; Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, participating virtually due to visa issues; and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, scheduled to speak later in the week. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also present, engaging in bilateral meetings and discussions.
Beyond the immediate crises, UNGA 80 will address a broad spectrum of vital issues. A Climate Summit on September 24 will see leaders present new national climate action plans. The launch of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance on September 25 highlights the growing importance of regulating artificial intelligence. Discussions will also revolve around advancing gender equality, focusing on the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, and addressing noncommunicable diseases and mental health.
Navigating Challenges: The Path Ahead
The assembly faces significant hurdles, including geopolitical divides that impede effective crisis resolution and concerns over the UN’s financial stability. The administration’s stance on multilateral institutions and funding cuts by some nations add to the complex dynamics. Despite these challenges, the UNGA remains the premier global forum for dialogue and consensus-building, offering a unique opportunity for leaders to unite, confront shared problems, and strive for collective solutions, making this year’s gathering a particularly hyped news event.
