<p>Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi used her first address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday (Sep 22) to reaffirm Tokyo’s support for the International Criminal Court and the rule of law.&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking in New York, Takaichi said Japan had consistently supported international judicial institutions since the end of World War II, including the ICC, the International Court of Justice and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. “Since the end of the Second World War, Japan, as a peace-loving nation, has attached great importance to the rule of law in the settlement of any disputes,” Takaichi said.</p><p>Her remarks came against the backdrop of US sanctions against Tomoko Akane, the Japanese national serving as ICC president. Japan has previously described the US measures against Akane as “incompatible” with its position and said it had repeatedly urged Washington not to impose the sanctions.</p><p>Takaichi did not directly criticise the United States in her UN address. Instead, she placed Japan's position within its broader commitment to international law and multilateral institutions. US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, used his own UN speech on Tuesday to attack the ICC and call on all member states to leave the court.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-on-nations-to-quit-rogue-and-out-of-control-international-criminal-court-rips-un-1790102584297"><strong>Trump calls on nations to quit ‘rogue’ and ‘out-of-control’ International Criminal Court, rips UN</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Takaichi says post-Cold War era is over</strong></h2><p>Takaichi told the General Assembly that the “stable post-Cold War era” had ended, as geopolitical competition and conflicts put pressure on the international order. Yet she argued that the UN remains essential.&nbsp;</p><p>“There has never been a time when the United Nations was more important than it is today in bringing about peace and stability to the world,” she said.</p><p>The Japanese prime minister said unilateral attempts to change the status quo through force or coercion could not be accepted, citing Russia's war in Ukraine as the “most obvious example”.</p><p>She also pointed to the paralysis of the UN Security Council, where Russia, a permanent member, has used its veto on resolutions concerning its own actions.</p><h2><strong>North Korea, Taiwan tensions</strong></h2><p>Takaichi described North Korea's advancing nuclear and missile programmes, as well as its cyber activities, as a serious threat to international peace and security. She called for the complete denuclearisation of North Korea and said Japan remained ready for dialogue over the long-running issue of Japanese citizens abducted by Pyongyang.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-ai-super-intelligence-at-un-as-world-leaders-clash-over-how-to-regulate-it-1790129701998"><strong>Trump calls AI ‘Super Intelligence’ at UN as world leaders clash over how to regulate it</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Iran war raises energy concerns</strong></h2><p>The conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran also featured in Takaichi's address. She said shipping through the Strait of Hormuz was facing increasing challenges and warned that disruptions to fuel, chemical products, medical supplies and fertilisers were affecting economies and households.</p><p>Japan is preparing a comprehensive cooperation plan aimed at strengthening the economic and energy resilience of Gulf countries, she said. "Concerns about arbitrary export restrictions are growing throughout the international community," she said, adding that Tokyo has also launched the Partnership on Wide Energy and Resources Resilience Asia, or POWERR Asia, to improve energy and resource security across the region.</p><p>Takaichi said Japan would continue working with other countries to protect free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.</p><h2><strong>Japan seeks bigger UN Security Council</strong></h2><p>A major part of Takaichi's speech focused on reforming the UN itself. She said the Security Council's current structure reflects the international situation of 1945 and no longer represents today's global realities.</p><p>Japan wants both permanent and non-permanent membership expanded to make the council more representative and legitimate, she said. “The current structure of the Security Council, whose mandate is to maintain international peace and security, reflects the international situation as it stood in 1945,” Takaichi said.</p>

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi has reaffirmed Tokyo’s support for the International Criminal Court and the rule of law at UNGA81, days after Washington sanctioned ICC president Tomoko Akane. She also called for major reforms to the UN Security Council.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi used her first address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday (Sep 22) to reaffirm Tokyo’s support for the International Criminal Court and the rule of law. Speaking in New York, Takaichi said Japan had consistently supported international judicial institutions since the end of World War II, including the ICC, the International Court of Justice and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. “Since the end of the Second World War, Japan, as a peace-loving nation, has attached great importance to the rule of law in the settlement of any disputes,” Takaichi said. Her remarks came against the backdrop of US sanctions against Tomoko Akane, the Japanese national serving as ICC president. Japan has previously described the US measures against Akane as “incompatible” with its position and said it had repeatedly urged Washington not to impose the sanctions. Takaichi did not directly criticise the United States in her UN address. Instead, she placed Japan's position within its broader commitment to international law and multilateral institutions. US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, used his own UN speech on Tuesday to attack the ICC and call on all member states to leave the court. Also read | Trump calls on nations to quit ‘rogue’ and ‘out-of-control’ International Criminal Court, rips UN Takaichi says post-Cold War era is over Takaichi told the General Assembly that the “stable post-Cold War era” had ended, as geopolitical competition and conflicts put pressure on the international order. Yet she argued that the UN remains essential. “There has never been a time when the United Nations was more important than it is today in bringing about peace and stability to the world,” she said. The Japanese prime minister said unilateral attempts to change the status quo through force or coercion could not be accepted, citing Russia's war in Ukraine as the “most obvious example”. She also pointed to the paralysis of the UN Security Council, where Russia, a permanent member, has used its veto on resolutions concerning its own actions. North Korea, Taiwan tensions Takaichi described North Korea's advancing nuclear and missile programmes, as well as its cyber activities, as a serious threat to international peace and security. She called for the complete denuclearisation of North Korea and said Japan remained ready for dialogue over the long-running issue of Japanese citizens abducted by Pyongyang. Also read | Trump calls AI ‘Super Intelligence’ at UN as world leaders clash over how to regulate it Iran war raises energy concerns The conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran also featured in Takaichi's address. She said shipping through the Strait of Hormuz was facing increasing challenges and warned that disruptions to fuel, chemical products, medical supplies and fertilisers were affecting economies and households. Japan is preparing a comprehensive cooperation plan aimed at strengthening the economic and energy resilience of Gulf countries, she said. "Concerns about arbitrary export restrictions are growing throughout the international community," she said, adding that Tokyo has also launched the Partnership on Wide Energy and Resources Resilience Asia, or POWERR Asia, to improve energy and resource security across the region. Takaichi said Japan would continue working with other countries to protect free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Japan seeks bigger UN Security Council A major part of Takaichi's speech focused on reforming the UN itself. She said the Security Council's current structure reflects the international situation of 1945 and no longer represents today's global realities. Japan wants both permanent and non-permanent membership expanded to make the council more representative and legitimate, she said. “The current structure of the Security Council, whose mandate is to maintain international peace and security, reflects the international situation as it stood in 1945,” Takaichi said.

<p>Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi has reaffirmed Tokyo’s support for the International Criminal Court and the rule of law at UNGA81, days after Washington sanctioned ICC president Tomoko Akane. She also called for major reforms to the UN Security Council.</p>

Japan backs ICC at UN as Trump attacks court, PM Takaichi avoids direct US criticism

<p>Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is leading the Indian delegation at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly Summit in New York on Monday (Sep 21), issued a clarion call for multilateralism. Addressing the inaugural Partners for Multilateralism Summit on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Jaishankar said the global order was under growing strain and called for a stronger, more effective multilateral system as geopolitical competition, conflicts and economic disruptions reshape international relations.</p><h2><strong>Global order under stress: Jaishankar</strong></h2><p>Jaishankar said the world was going through a period of major structural change, marked by heightened competition and geopolitical tensions. “We meet at a time when the global order is under stress,” Jaishankar said. He warned that if the current trends continued unchecked, they could undermine the principle of international cooperation.</p><p>“That is why it is so essential that multilateralism asserts itself strongly at this juncture,” he said. The summit brought together countries seeking to strengthen cooperation and support reform of international institutions.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-iran-war-ai-and-covid-19-here-s-what-on-top-agenda-as-world-leaders-gather-in-new-york-for-unga-2026-1789717779463"><strong>Global wars, AI, Covid-19 and more: Here's what's on top agenda as world leaders gather in New York for UNGA 2026</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Jaishankar flags ‘four F’ crisis</strong></h2><p>The External Affairs Minister said the challenges facing the global community were not limited to diplomatic disagreements but directly affected peace, security and development. He listed climate action and climate justice, emerging technologies, development finance, counterterrorism, resilient supply chains and pandemic preparedness among the areas where international cooperation was needed.</p><p>“The four ‘F crisis’ of Fuel, food, fertiliser and finance cannot be left to itself,” Jaishankar said. He argued that countries should pursue practical measures even while broader disputes and conflicts remain unresolved.</p><p>“That objective can be realised through a range of efforts, through a combination of initiatives,” he said, adding that specific issues could be addressed even as countries continued working towards wider peace.</p><h2><strong>India pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’</strong></h2><p>Jaishankar also called for new international frameworks to address emerging technologies and vulnerabilities in global supply chains.</p><p>“Where new capabilities and concerns arise, there is a very powerful case for frameworks and guardrails,” he said. “Where there is a threat of choke points, dominance and disruptions, de-risking and diversifying must be encouraged.”</p><p>He said international law, rules and norms must remain central to the functioning of the global system.</p><p>“Multilateralism will be best served when international law, rules and norms are scrupulously observed,” he said.</p><p>For India, he argued, strengthening multilateralism also requires reforming the institutions through which it operates. “For Multilateralism to forge ahead its advocacy and its practice must both be strengthened. Reformed Multilateralism is therefore essential,” Jaishankar said.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Addressed the inaugural ‘Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity (P4M) Summit’ <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNGA81?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA81</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNHighLevelWeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNHighLevelWeek</a> <a href="https://t.co/eCNJnRT8HS">pic.twitter.com/eCNJnRT8HS</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102182982224085428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>He called for more participative discussions and greater transparency in international decision-making, saying both were overdue and necessary to restore confidence in the UN system. “More participative deliberations and more transparent decision-making are both overdue,” he said.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-2026-how-many-countries-are-members-of-the-united-nations-full-list-1789550537103"><strong>UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Jaishankar meets Swiss, Nauru leaders</strong></h2><p>Jaishankar's UNGA schedule also included bilateral meetings. He met Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and discussed economic ties following the entry into force of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.</p><p>“A warm meeting with Swiss FM @ignaziocassis #UNHighLevelWeek. Took stock of our strengthening economic ties with the entry into force of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement. Also discussed global issues and closer multilateral cooperation,” Jaishankar said in a post on X.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A warm meeting with Swiss FM <a href="https://x.com/ignaziocassis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ignaziocassis</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNHighLevelWeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNHighLevelWeek</a><br><br>Took stock of our strengthening economic ties with the entry into force of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement. Also discussed global issues and closer multilateral cooperation. <br><br>🇮🇳🇨🇭 <a href="https://t.co/RVLMAIQ2fj">pic.twitter.com/RVLMAIQ2fj</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102160987260322002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcomed the opportunity to meet FM <a href="https://x.com/andrii_sybiha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andrii_sybiha</a> again, after my recent visit to Ukraine.<br><br>Our conversation focused on developments over the past few weeks.<br><br>🇮🇳 🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/SehmSu1sxm">pic.twitter.com/SehmSu1sxm</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102216624283738315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A good meeting with FM <a href="https://x.com/MihaiPopsoi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MihaiPopsoi</a> of Moldova <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNGA81?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA81</a><br><br>Noted the progress in our bilateral political, economic and educational ties. Exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict. <br><br>🇮🇳 🇲🇩 <a href="https://t.co/6D0vSA5h50">pic.twitter.com/6D0vSA5h50</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102194802364223873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>He separately met Nauru President David Adeang and highlighted India's development partnership with the Pacific island nation. Jaishankar said the two countries valued their bilateral and multilateral cooperation.</p><h2><strong>First V4-India foreign ministers’ meeting</strong></h2><p>Earlier, Jaishankar attended the first Visegrád Group, or V4, and India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, involving Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.</p><p>The countries agreed to deepen cooperation across politics, trade, technology, defence, education and people-to-people exchanges. They also discussed technology and innovation, space, connectivity and mobility, along with international developments including the Ukraine conflict and the situation in the Gulf.</p><p>The sides agreed to hold annual foreign ministers' meetings and establish an annual business forum. Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár said the V4 countries supported India's permanent membership of the UN Security Council.</p>

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has warned that the global order is under growing stress, calling for stronger multilateralism and reforms to international institutions. He also flagged the “four F” crisis of fuel, food, fertiliser and finance.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is leading the Indian delegation at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly Summit in New York on Monday (Sep 21), issued a clarion call for multilateralism. Addressing the inaugural Partners for Multilateralism Summit on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Jaishankar said the global order was under growing strain and called for a stronger, more effective multilateral system as geopolitical competition, conflicts and economic disruptions reshape international relations. Global order under stress: Jaishankar Jaishankar said the world was going through a period of major structural change, marked by heightened competition and geopolitical tensions. “We meet at a time when the global order is under stress,” Jaishankar said. He warned that if the current trends continued unchecked, they could undermine the principle of international cooperation. “That is why it is so essential that multilateralism asserts itself strongly at this juncture,” he said. The summit brought together countries seeking to strengthen cooperation and support reform of international institutions. Also read | Global wars, AI, Covid-19 and more: Here's what's on top agenda as world leaders gather in New York for UNGA 2026 Jaishankar flags ‘four F’ crisis The External Affairs Minister said the challenges facing the global community were not limited to diplomatic disagreements but directly affected peace, security and development. He listed climate action and climate justice, emerging technologies, development finance, counterterrorism, resilient supply chains and pandemic preparedness among the areas where international cooperation was needed. “The four ‘F crisis’ of Fuel, food, fertiliser and finance cannot be left to itself,” Jaishankar said. He argued that countries should pursue practical measures even while broader disputes and conflicts remain unresolved. “That objective can be realised through a range of efforts, through a combination of initiatives,” he said, adding that specific issues could be addressed even as countries continued working towards wider peace. India pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’ Jaishankar also called for new international frameworks to address emerging technologies and vulnerabilities in global supply chains. “Where new capabilities and concerns arise, there is a very powerful case for frameworks and guardrails,” he said. “Where there is a threat of choke points, dominance and disruptions, de-risking and diversifying must be encouraged.” He said international law, rules and norms must remain central to the functioning of the global system. “Multilateralism will be best served when international law, rules and norms are scrupulously observed,” he said. For India, he argued, strengthening multilateralism also requires reforming the institutions through which it operates. “For Multilateralism to forge ahead its advocacy and its practice must both be strengthened. Reformed Multilateralism is therefore essential,” Jaishankar said.

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has warned that the global order is under growing stress, calling for stronger multilateralism and reforms to international institutions. He also flagged the “four F” crisis of fuel, food, fertiliser and finance.</p>

India at UNGA81: Jaishankar warns global order under 'growing stress', pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’

<p>Next week, world leaders will convene in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting unfolds at a difficult moment for global diplomacy, and wars, climate change, economic pressures and growing questions over the future of multilateralism are set to dominate the agenda.</p><p>The high-level week of the General Assembly’s 81st session runs from September 22 to 28, with nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to attend in person.</p><p>This year's General Debate will be presided over by the newly elected Assembly President Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”</p><p>The gathering comes as divisions inside the UN remain sharp and the Security Council struggles to find common ground on some of the world's major conflicts. The issues on the table stretch well beyond war, covering the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, climate action, rising seas, pandemic preparedness, racism, nuclear disarmament and the governance of artificial intelligence. Here's all you need to know about the UNGA81 agenda.</p><h2><strong>Gaza, Ukraine and Iran</strong></h2><p>The wars in Gaza, Ukraine and Iran are expected to take centre stage during the political debate.</p><p>The UNGA meeting opens against a backdrop of continuing fighting and stalled diplomacy. On one hand, the Gaza ceasefire has held unevenly, while diplomatic efforts to end Russia's war in Ukraine have yet to produce a breakthrough.</p><p>The conflict involving Iran is also expected to loom large. US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian retaliation against US bases have added fresh pressure to an already tense regional environment and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.</p><p>That diplomatic pressure is compounded by divisions in the Security Council itself, particularly over the status of sanctions against Iran. The resulting deadlock has affected the council's ability to reach agreement on routine business, the supplied material says.</p><p>Leaders are also expected to discuss Sudan, Myanmar, Haiti and Cyprus alongside the major conflicts.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-2026-how-many-countries-are-members-of-the-united-nations-full-list-1789550537103"><strong>UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Climate Change: Can the SDGs still be achieved?</strong></h2><p>Before the General Debate begins, the UN will hold its annual SDG Moment on September 18.</p><p>In 2015, the member nations adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, covering issues such as poverty, hunger, education, clean water and energy. These SDGs have a deadline of 2030, and with less than five years remaining, the focus will be on whether governments can accelerate implementation rather than simply restate existing commitments.</p><p>The UN says this year's SDG Moment, under the theme “Together, We Can Get There”, will examine how proven solutions can be scaled up despite financing gaps, conflicts, climate shocks, debt pressures and inequality.</p><h2><strong>Climate and the threat of rising seas</strong></h2><p>Climate diplomacy will get a major platform on September 23, when Secretary-General António Guterres convenes a high-level event on climate action and the just transition.</p><p>The discussions will focus on accelerating the shift to renewable energy, increasing climate finance for developing countries and strengthening support for communities already facing climate impacts.</p><p>The following day, the General Assembly will hold a high-level meeting on sea-level rise, with particular attention on small island developing states and low-lying coastal communities. The meeting is expected to produce an action-oriented declaration.</p><h2><strong>Lessons from Covid</strong></h2><p>Pandemic preparedness will also mark a return to the UN agenda on September 25.</p><p>Governments will revisit the lessons of Covid-19, including weaknesses exposed in health systems and disparities in access to vaccines, medicines and other essential supplies. The meeting will examine ways to improve prevention, preparedness and responses to future health emergencies.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-2026-theme-explained-what-does-restoring-trust-managing-transformation-a-united-nations-that-delivers-for-all-mean-1789715382814"><strong>UNGA 2026 theme explained: What does ‘Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all’ mean?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>AI becomes a UN issue</strong></h2><p>Artificial intelligence is also emerging as a major issue on the sidelines of the General Assembly.</p><p>Guterres has said AI governance will be part of his discussions with world leaders, with the UN looking at how to promote the safe, secure and responsible development of the technology while identifying situations in which more powerful systems require stronger safeguards.</p><p>The debate comes as governments grapple with rapid advances in AI and disagreements over how much regulation is needed.</p><h2><strong>Racism, development and nuclear weapons</strong></h2><p>September 23 will also mark the 40th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development, while September 28 will be devoted in part to the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action against racism and related forms of discrimination.</p><p>The high-level week extends beyond September 28. On September 29, the General Assembly will hold a plenary meeting on the total elimination of nuclear weapons, an issue the UN has treated as a central disarmament priority since its earliest years.</p><h2><strong>Final UNGA season for Guterres</strong></h2><p>For Guterres, the session has added significance. His second and final term as UN secretary-general ends on December 31, 2026, making this his final General Assembly session to begin as the organisation's chief. The process of selecting his successor is already underway, with the next secretary-general due to take office on January 1, 2027.</p><p>The UN chief has repeatedly called for renewed international cooperation at a time of deepening geopolitical divisions. In a recent message, he invoked the opening words of the UN Charter: “We the peoples”.</p><p>For the UN, the test of this year's gathering will be whether that language can translate into tangible cooperation in a world where consensus on some of the most urgent crises remains increasingly difficult to achieve.</p>

World leaders are heading to New York for UNGA81 as wars, climate threats and rapid advances in AI test international cooperation. From Gaza and Ukraine to rising seas and pandemic preparedness, here are the key issues to watch.

Next week, world leaders will convene in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting unfolds at a difficult moment for global diplomacy, and wars, climate change, economic pressures and growing questions over the future of multilateralism are set to dominate the agenda. The high-level week of the General Assembly’s 81st session runs from September 22 to 28, with nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to attend in person. This year's General Debate will be presided over by the newly elected Assembly President Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.” The gathering comes as divisions inside the UN remain sharp and the Security Council struggles to find common ground on some of the world's major conflicts. The issues on the table stretch well beyond war, covering the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, climate action, rising seas, pandemic preparedness, racism, nuclear disarmament and the governance of artificial intelligence. Here's all you need to know about the UNGA81 agenda. Gaza, Ukraine and Iran The wars in Gaza, Ukraine and Iran are expected to take centre stage during the political debate. The UNGA meeting opens against a backdrop of continuing fighting and stalled diplomacy. On one hand, the Gaza ceasefire has held unevenly, while diplomatic efforts to end Russia's war in Ukraine have yet to produce a breakthrough. The conflict involving Iran is also expected to loom large. US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian retaliation against US bases have added fresh pressure to an already tense regional environment and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. That diplomatic pressure is compounded by divisions in the Security Council itself, particularly over the status of sanctions against Iran. The resulting deadlock has affected the council's ability to reach agreement on routine business, the supplied material says. Leaders are also expected to discuss Sudan, Myanmar, Haiti and Cyprus alongside the major conflicts. Also read | UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect Climate Change: Can the SDGs still be achieved? Before the General Debate begins, the UN will hold its annual SDG Moment on September 18. In 2015, the member nations adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, covering issues such as poverty, hunger, education, clean water and energy. These SDGs have a deadline of 2030, and with less than five years remaining, the focus will be on whether governments can accelerate implementation rather than simply restate existing commitments. The UN says this year's SDG Moment, under the theme “Together, We Can Get There”, will examine how proven solutions can be scaled up despite financing gaps, conflicts, climate shocks, debt pressures and inequality. Climate and the threat of rising seas Climate diplomacy will get a major platform on September 23, when Secretary-General António Guterres convenes a high-level event on climate action and the just transition. The discussions will focus on accelerating the shift to renewable energy, increasing climate finance for developing countries and strengthening support for communities already facing climate impacts. The following day, the General Assembly will hold a high-level meeting on sea-level rise, with particular attention on small island developing states and low-lying coastal communities. The meeting is expected to produce an action-oriented declaration. Lessons from Covid Pandemic preparedness will also mark a return to the UN agenda on September 25. Governments will revisit the lessons of Covid-19, including weaknesses exposed in health systems and disparities in access to vaccines, medicines and other essential supplies. The meeting will examine ways to improve prevention, preparedness and responses to future health emergencies. Also read | UNGA 2026 theme explained: What does ‘Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all’ mean? AI becomes a UN issue Artificial intelligence is also emerging as a major issue on the sidelines of the General Assembly. Guterres has said AI governance will be part of his discussions with world leaders, with the UN looking at how to promote the safe, secure and responsible development of the technology while identifying situations in which more powerful systems require stronger safeguards. The debate comes as governments grapple with rapid advances in AI and disagreements over how much regulation is needed. Racism, development and nuclear weapons September 23 will also mark the 40th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development, while September 28 will be devoted in part to the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action against racism and related forms of discrimination. The high-level week extends beyond September 28. On September 29, the General Assembly will hold a plenary meeting on the total elimination of nuclear weapons, an issue the UN has treated as a central disarmament priority since its earliest years. Final UNGA season for Guterres For Guterres, the session has added significance. His second and final term as UN secretary-general ends on December 31, 2026, making this his final General Assembly session to begin as the organisation's chief. The process of selecting his successor is already underway, with the next secretary-general due to take office on January 1, 2027. The UN chief has repeatedly called for renewed international cooperation at a time of deepening geopolitical divisions. In a recent message, he invoked the opening words of the UN Charter: “We the peoples”. For the UN, the test of this year's gathering will be whether that language can translate into tangible cooperation in a world where consensus on some of the most urgent crises remains increasingly difficult to achieve.

<p>World leaders are heading to New York for UNGA81 as wars, climate threats and rapid advances in AI test international cooperation. From Gaza and Ukraine to rising seas and pandemic preparedness, here are the key issues to watch.</p>

Global wars, AI, Covid-19 and more: Here's what's on top agenda as world leaders gather in New York for UNGA 2026

<p>The United Nations General Assembly is set to bring world leaders together once again as the 81st session intensifies at the UN headquarters in New York. The high-level meetings segment, scheduled for September 22-26, 2026, will see heads of state and government, ministers and senior officials from around the world discuss pressing international challenges.</p><p>The annual gathering comes as countries seek to strengthen global cooperation, advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote collective action on peace, dignity, equality and environmental sustainability.</p><h2><strong>UN General Assembly 2026: What to expect</strong></h2><p>The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, also known as UNGA81, will feature a series of discussions and events focused on international cooperation and practical solutions to global challenges.</p><p>Two platforms will place a particular emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals and efforts to accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda.</p><p>The SDG Media Zone, produced by the UN Department of Global Communications, will run from September 21 to 25. The platform will feature interviews, panel discussions and conversations highlighting solutions to challenges linked to sustainable development.</p><p>Another key platform, the Goals Lounge, will operate from September 14 to 25. Convened by the UN Deputy Secretary-General and hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships, it will feature informal dialogues, in-depth discussions on critical issues and interactive experiences.</p><p>Events from both platforms will be available to audiences worldwide through live streams on UN WebTV.</p><h2><strong>High-level meetings to begin on September 22</strong></h2><p>The high-level segment of UNGA81 will begin on September 22 and continue through September 26. The meetings are expected to draw senior representatives from UN member states for discussions on issues affecting international peace, development and global governance.</p><p>The General Assembly remains the UN's principal deliberative, policymaking and representative body. Its annual session provides a platform for all member states to present their positions, debate international issues and work towards collective decisions.</p><h2><strong>How many countries are members of the United Nations?</strong></h2><p>The United Nations currently has 193 member states. These countries make up the organisation's membership and participate in the General Assembly, where each member state has one vote.</p><p>The UN also recognises two non-member observer states: the Holy See and the State of Palestine. While they do not have the same voting rights as member states, they can participate in the work of the General Assembly under observer status.</p><p>The full list of the 193 UN member states is arranged alphabetically below.</p><h2><strong>Full list of 193 United Nations member countries</strong></h2><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Afghanistan</td></tr><tr><td>Albania</td></tr><tr><td>Algeria</td></tr><tr><td>Andorra</td></tr><tr><td>Angola</td></tr><tr><td>Antigua and Barbuda</td></tr><tr><td>Argentina</td></tr><tr><td>Armenia</td></tr><tr><td>Australia</td></tr><tr><td>Austria</td></tr><tr><td>Azerbaijan</td></tr><tr><td>Bahamas</td></tr><tr><td>Bahrain</td></tr><tr><td>Bangladesh</td></tr><tr><td>Barbados</td></tr><tr><td>Belarus</td></tr><tr><td>Belgium</td></tr><tr><td>Belize</td></tr><tr><td>Benin</td></tr><tr><td>Bhutan</td></tr><tr><td>Bolivia</td></tr><tr><td>Bosnia and Herzegovina</td></tr><tr><td>Botswana</td></tr><tr><td>Brazil</td></tr><tr><td>Brunei Darussalam</td></tr><tr><td>Bulgaria</td></tr><tr><td>Burkina Faso</td></tr><tr><td>Burundi</td></tr><tr><td>Cabo Verde</td></tr><tr><td>Cambodia</td></tr><tr><td>Cameroon</td></tr><tr><td>Canada</td></tr><tr><td>Central African Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Chad</td></tr><tr><td>Chile</td></tr><tr><td>China</td></tr><tr><td>Colombia</td></tr><tr><td>Comoros</td></tr><tr><td>Congo</td></tr><tr><td>Costa Rica</td></tr><tr><td>Côte d'Ivoire</td></tr><tr><td>Croatia</td></tr><tr><td>Cuba</td></tr><tr><td>Cyprus</td></tr><tr><td>Czechia</td></tr><tr><td>Democratic People's Republic of Korea</td></tr><tr><td>Democratic Republic of the Congo</td></tr><tr><td>Denmark</td></tr><tr><td>Djibouti</td></tr><tr><td>Dominica</td></tr><tr><td>Dominican Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Ecuador</td></tr><tr><td>Egypt</td></tr><tr><td>El Salvador</td></tr><tr><td>Equatorial Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Eritrea</td></tr><tr><td>Estonia</td></tr><tr><td>Eswatini</td></tr><tr><td>Ethiopia</td></tr><tr><td>Fiji</td></tr><tr><td>Finland</td></tr><tr><td>France</td></tr><tr><td>Gabon</td></tr><tr><td>Gambia</td></tr><tr><td>Georgia</td></tr><tr><td>Germany</td></tr><tr><td>Ghana</td></tr><tr><td>Greece</td></tr><tr><td>Grenada</td></tr><tr><td>Guatemala</td></tr><tr><td>Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Guinea-Bissau</td></tr><tr><td>Guyana</td></tr><tr><td>Haiti</td></tr><tr><td>Honduras</td></tr><tr><td>Hungary</td></tr><tr><td>Iceland</td></tr><tr><td>India</td></tr><tr><td>Indonesia</td></tr><tr><td>Iran</td></tr><tr><td>Iraq</td></tr><tr><td>Ireland</td></tr><tr><td>Israel</td></tr><tr><td>Italy</td></tr><tr><td>Jamaica</td></tr><tr><td>Japan</td></tr><tr><td>Jordan</td></tr><tr><td>Kazakhstan</td></tr><tr><td>Kenya</td></tr><tr><td>Kiribati</td></tr><tr><td>Kuwait</td></tr><tr><td>Kyrgyzstan</td></tr><tr><td>Lao People's Democratic Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Latvia</td></tr><tr><td>Lebanon</td></tr><tr><td>Lesotho</td></tr><tr><td>Liberia</td></tr><tr><td>Libya</td></tr><tr><td>Liechtenstein</td></tr><tr><td>Lithuania</td></tr><tr><td>Luxembourg</td></tr><tr><td>Madagascar</td></tr><tr><td>Malawi</td></tr><tr><td>Malaysia</td></tr><tr><td>Maldives</td></tr><tr><td>Mali</td></tr><tr><td>Malta</td></tr><tr><td>Marshall Islands</td></tr><tr><td>Mauritania</td></tr><tr><td>Mauritius</td></tr><tr><td>Mexico</td></tr><tr><td>Micronesia (Federated States of)</td></tr><tr><td>Monaco</td></tr><tr><td>Mongolia</td></tr><tr><td>Montenegro</td></tr><tr><td>Morocco</td></tr><tr><td>Mozambique</td></tr><tr><td>Myanmar</td></tr><tr><td>Namibia</td></tr><tr><td>Nauru</td></tr><tr><td>Nepal</td></tr><tr><td>Netherlands</td></tr><tr><td>New Zealand</td></tr><tr><td>Nicaragua</td></tr><tr><td>Niger</td></tr><tr><td>Nigeria</td></tr><tr><td>North Macedonia</td></tr><tr><td>Norway</td></tr><tr><td>Oman</td></tr><tr><td>Pakistan</td></tr><tr><td>Palau</td></tr><tr><td>Panama</td></tr><tr><td>Papua New Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Paraguay</td></tr><tr><td>Peru</td></tr><tr><td>Philippines</td></tr><tr><td>Poland</td></tr><tr><td>Portugal</td></tr><tr><td>Qatar</td></tr><tr><td>Republic of Korea</td></tr><tr><td>Republic of Moldova</td></tr><tr><td>Romania</td></tr><tr><td>Russian Federation</td></tr><tr><td>Rwanda</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Kitts and Nevis</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Lucia</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Vincent and the Grenadines</td></tr><tr><td>Samoa</td></tr><tr><td>San Marino</td></tr><tr><td>Sao Tome and Principe</td></tr><tr><td>Saudi Arabia</td></tr><tr><td>Senegal</td></tr><tr><td>Serbia</td></tr><tr><td>Seychelles</td></tr><tr><td>Sierra Leone</td></tr><tr><td>Singapore</td></tr><tr><td>Slovakia</td></tr><tr><td>Slovenia</td></tr><tr><td>Solomon Islands</td></tr><tr><td>Somalia</td></tr><tr><td>South Africa</td></tr><tr><td>South Sudan</td></tr><tr><td>Spain</td></tr><tr><td>Sri Lanka</td></tr><tr><td>Sudan</td></tr><tr><td>Suriname</td></tr><tr><td>Sweden</td></tr><tr><td>Switzerland</td></tr><tr><td>Syrian Arab Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Tajikistan</td></tr><tr><td>Thailand</td></tr><tr><td>Timor-Leste</td></tr><tr><td>Togo</td></tr><tr><td>Tonga</td></tr><tr><td>Trinidad and Tobago</td></tr><tr><td>Tunisia</td></tr><tr><td>Türkiye</td></tr><tr><td>Turkmenistan</td></tr><tr><td>Tuvalu</td></tr><tr><td>Uganda</td></tr><tr><td>Ukraine</td></tr><tr><td>United Arab Emirates</td></tr><tr><td>United Kingdom</td></tr><tr><td>United Republic of Tanzania</td></tr><tr><td>United States of America</td></tr><tr><td>Uruguay</td></tr><tr><td>Uzbekistan</td></tr><tr><td>Vanuatu</td></tr><tr><td>Venezuela</td></tr><tr><td>Viet Nam</td></tr><tr><td>Yemen</td></tr><tr><td>Zambia</td></tr><tr><td>Zimbabwe</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

As world leaders prepare to gather in New York for UNGA81, the United Nations is set for another major diplomatic week. But how many countries actually make up the UN and which ones are on the full list?

The United Nations General Assembly is set to bring world leaders together once again as the 81st session intensifies at the UN headquarters in New York. The high-level meetings segment, scheduled for September 22-26, 2026, will see heads of state and government, ministers and senior officials from around the world discuss pressing international challenges. The annual gathering comes as countries seek to strengthen global cooperation, advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote collective action on peace, dignity, equality and environmental sustainability. UN General Assembly 2026: What to expect The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, also known as UNGA81, will feature a series of discussions and events focused on international cooperation and practical solutions to global challenges. Two platforms will place a particular emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals and efforts to accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda. The SDG Media Zone, produced by the UN Department of Global Communications, will run from September 21 to 25. The platform will feature interviews, panel discussions and conversations highlighting solutions to challenges linked to sustainable development. Another key platform, the Goals Lounge, will operate from September 14 to 25. Convened by the UN Deputy Secretary-General and hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships, it will feature informal dialogues, in-depth discussions on critical issues and interactive experiences. Events from both platforms will be available to audiences worldwide through live streams on UN WebTV. High-level meetings to begin on September 22 The high-level segment of UNGA81 will begin on September 22 and continue through September 26. The meetings are expected to draw senior representatives from UN member states for discussions on issues affecting international peace, development and global governance. The General Assembly remains the UN's principal deliberative, policymaking and representative body. Its annual session provides a platform for all member states to present their positions, debate international issues and work towards collective decisions. How many countries are members of the United Nations? The United Nations currently has 193 member states. These countries make up the organisation's membership and participate in the General Assembly, where each member state has one vote. The UN also recognises two non-member observer states: the Holy See and the State of Palestine. While they do not have the same voting rights as member states, they can participate in the work of the General Assembly under observer status. The full list of the 193 UN member states is arranged alphabetically below. Full list of 193 United Nations member countries Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia Democratic People's Republic of Korea Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Fiji Finland France Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia (Federated States of) Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Macedonia Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Republic of Korea Republic of Moldova Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Tajikistan Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Türkiye Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United Republic of Tanzania United States of America Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

<p>As world leaders prepare to gather in New York for UNGA81, the United Nations is set for another major diplomatic week. But how many countries actually make up the UN and which ones are on the full list?</p>

UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect

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UNGA 2026: How many countries are members of the United Nations? Full list