World Crying Out for Principled Leaders to End Conflicts, Tackle Sectarianism,

Secretary-General Tells United Nations Association- United Kingdom Forum

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message for the United Nations Association–United Kingdom Forum 2014, in London today:

From Syria to Iraq, from the Central African Republic to South Sudan, we are witnessing deepening and deeply destructive conflicts.  Now, more than at any time in recent history, the world is crying out for principled leaders who can end conflicts and tackle sectarianism.

Over the next 12 months, the international community must find the means and the ways to tackle poverty, safeguard human rights and address climate change.  We are pushing to meet the Millennium Development Goals by 2015 and forge a transformative vision for the longer term.  And I am calling on the world’s leaders to bring solutions to a major climate change summit I will convene in New York this September.

In our world, national and international interests have converged.  From food prices to job creation, local issues increasingly require global action.  The UN is on the front line, responding to these challenges and helping to forge solutions.  But, at this time when global cooperation is crucial, too many are turning inwards — and too often, against each other.  This is a time to look outward, to cooperate and to forge partnerships for results.  All of you can advance our common agenda by demanding more from your leaders and your United Nations.

This UN Forum can help you raise your voices for action.  For the past 70 years, UNA-UK (United Nations Association–United Kingdom Forum) has been an essential bridge between the UN and people in the United Kingdom.  We welcome your constructive criticisms and your invaluable support for our mission to build a safer, more peaceful and more sustainable world.

I send my best wishes for your success, and I count on all of you to engage with the United Nations — at this Forum and beyond.

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For information media • not an official record