The UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the world is at a “crossroads” as it enters the new year, citing escalating conflicts, deepening divisions, climate breakdown and widespread violations of international law.
In a New Year video message released in December 2025, the UN chief said global chaos and uncertainty are undermining the principles that bind humanity together, prompting growing public frustration over whether leaders are prepared to listen and act.
He pointed to soaring global military expenditures as a stark indicator of misplaced priorities, noting that defense spending reached $2.7 trillion worldwide, an increase of nearly 10 percent. The figure, he said, is 13 times higher than total global development aid and roughly equal to the entire gross domestic product of Africa.
The surge in military spending comes as armed conflicts rage at levels not seen since World War II, the Secretary-General said, underscoring what he described as a retreat from peace, cooperation and international law.
Calling for a change in course, he urged governments to invest more in combating poverty and less in fueling wars, stressing that lasting global security can only be achieved through peace.
“The world has the resources to lift lives, heal the planet, and secure a future of peace and justice,” he said, arguing that political will—not capacity—is the missing ingredient.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Secretary-General called on world leaders to “get serious” and prioritize people and the planet over violence and suffering. He also appealed directly to citizens worldwide to play an active role in shaping a more just and peaceful future.
“Our future depends on our collective courage to act,” he said, urging global unity as the new year begins.
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