United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a stark reminder of the UN Charter’s enduring relevance on Thursday, marking the 80th anniversary of its signing with a call for renewed global commitment to international law. “The charter is not optional. It is not an a-la-carte menu. It is the bedrock of international relations,” Guterres declared, addressing representatives from the UN’s 193 member states.
His remarks underscored growing concerns over selective adherence to the charter’s principles amid rising geopolitical tensions. Guterres warned that the document, adopted in 1945 to prevent future conflicts, faces unprecedented challenges as nations increasingly prioritize narrow interests over collective security. “We see an all too familiar pattern: Follow when the charter suits, ignore when it does not,” he said.
The secretary-general emphasized that upholding the charter’s values—including peace, justice, and human rights—is a “never-ending mission” requiring concrete action. He urged member states to recommit to multilateralism, particularly in addressing crises such as climate change, armed conflicts, and economic inequality.
Signed on June 26, 1945, in San Francisco, the UN Charter established the framework for post-war international cooperation. Guterres framed its anniversary as both a celebration and a challenge: “The future it summons us to build demands responsibility—in words and deeds.”
