Switzerland’s President, Karin Keller-Sutter, recalled that, 80 years ago, 50 States adopted the United Nations Charter in San Francisco and were "determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind".  Today, a just, lasting peace in the Middle East and Ukraine still seems out of reach, and autocratic tendencies are gaining ground, including in Europe.  “We need be honest with ourselves:  these developments have no simple solutions, either at the international or national levels,” she said.  Two errors must be avoided:  pointing the finger only at others and leaving international organizations to work alone, as if they were completely detached from States.

“Multilateralism, international organizations and the United Nations are essential for the peaceful coexistence of peoples, for global economic prosperity, for the resolution of challenges including migration, climate change and the digital transition,” she stressed.  The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a central pillar of the Pact for the Future.  “We must implement these road maps without delay,” she said.  “As the UN's leading operational centre, Geneva has strong expertise in many areas that are crucial to our future, particularly those related to humanity and innovation; it is a unique, unparalleled ecosystem for reflection, discussion and concerted action.”

Security and freedom are essential prerequisites for economic growth and prosperity, she said.  They require institutions that are legally sound, reliable and capable of taking action, and they require political, social and financial stability, she continued.  “We cannot simply delegate our responsibilities to an international organization,” she stressed, also urging the United Nations to take a critical look at itself and consider whether it is still able to fulfil its role as the 50 States intended in San Francisco on 25 June 1945.

Multilateralism is undergoing unprecedented upheaval, she noted, calling on all States to make a firm commitment to uphold the principles and values enshrined in the Charter.  “We are, however, in the midst of a critical phase, and the next chapter of history has yet to be written,” she said.  “This also means that we can play an active role in shaping it.” She urged Member States to guard against arrogance and complacency and “go to work at home, in our countries and together at the United Nations”.