Is the UN Chief Prioritizing Development Over Military Spending in His New Year Message?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a powerful New Year address, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need to prioritize development aid over military spending, making history by delivering the message in Hindi. He highlighted the urgent issues facing our world and called for action from leaders globally.
Key Takeaways
- Guterres calls for prioritizing development over military spending.
- First-ever New Year message delivered in Hindi.
- Global military spending has skyrocketed, overshadowing development aid.
- India supports Hindi initiatives at the UN significantly.
- Leaders are urged to consider the needs of people and the planet.
United Nations, Dec 30 (NationPress) In a world engulfed by “chaos and uncertainty”, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a historic first, delivered his New Year message in Hindi, urging a shift in focus towards development aid rather than military expenditures.
“As we welcome this new year, let’s commit to reassessing our priorities,” he stated. “Creating a safer world starts with investing more resources in alleviating poverty and less in warfare”.
“Peace must be our guiding principle,” he emphasized.
This year marked the first occasion the Indian government’s efforts to promote Hindi at the UN led to the issuance of Guterres' New Year message in Hindi.
Moreover, the video of his address included a version with Hindi subtitles.
Guterres described a stark reality where the world is moving away from the fundamental principles that unite humanity, with citizens demanding action from their leaders.
“As we step into the new year, we find ourselves at a crucial juncture,” he remarked. “We are surrounded by chaos and uncertainty. Division. Violence. Climate breakdown. And systemic breaches of international law.”
“People across the globe are questioning: Are leaders truly listening? Are they prepared to take action?” he added.
He pointed out that global military expenditures have escalated to $2.7 trillion, a nearly 10 percent increase—thirteen times greater than all development aid, equating to the total Gross Domestic Product of Africa. This reinforces the need for increased development assistance.
“In 2026, I urge leaders worldwide: Prioritize people and the planet, not pain,” said Guterres, who will conclude his tenure as UN head next year.
India has actively supported the use of Hindi at the UN, having invested approximately $6.8 million in this initiative, and recently signed a memorandum of understanding to extend the “Hindi@UN Project” for five more years.
Under this agreement, Permanent Representative P. Harish and Under-Secretary-General Melissa Fleming confirmed India’s commitment of $1.5 million annually to the project.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the deep implications of Secretary-General Guterres' appeal for prioritizing development over military expenditures. This reflects a growing sentiment among global leaders and citizens alike, urging a shift towards sustainable growth and peace, a direction that aligns with the values of our nation.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary message from Antonio Guterres?
The primary message was a call to prioritize development aid over military spending, emphasizing the need for a safer world through poverty alleviation rather than conflict.
Why was the message delivered in Hindi?
The message was delivered in Hindi to support India's ongoing efforts to promote the use of the language at the United Nations.
What are the current global military expenditures?
Global military expenditures have reached $2.7 trillion, which is significantly higher than all development aid combined.
What does Guterres urge leaders to do in 2026?
He urges leaders to choose people and the planet over military spending and pain.
How is India contributing to the UN's Hindi initiative?
India has pledged $1.5 million annually to the 'Hindi@UN Project' to support the use of Hindi at the United Nations.
