The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on countries to renew their commitment to international cooperation, peace and human rights amid growing global challenges.

In his message for United Nations Day, observed on 24 October, Guterres warned that conflict, climate change, rising inequality and rapidly advancing technologies are placing increasing pressure on the international community.

He said the founding idea of the United Nations remains as relevant today as it was when the organisation was established in 1945 that humanity's future depends on countries working together to advance peace, development and human rights.

Guterres pointed out the UN's role in resolving disputes through diplomacy and international law, fighting poverty and hunger, protecting human rights and delivering life-saving assistance to people affected by war, disasters and displacement.

"From transportation, trade and technology. To safeguard the health of people and the planet. To champion gender equality and expand opportunity for women and girls. To give all countries an equal voice on the global stage. The United Nations is an essential part of the fabric of our world, and it's needed more than ever. Our world is shaken by conflict. Battered by the climate crisis, scarred by rising inequalities, and transformed by technologies speeding faster than our ability to govern them."

However, the Secretary-General stressed that the world needs the United Nations more than ever, calling for renewed commitment to the principles underpinning its establishment.

He urged countries to prioritise dialogue over division, cooperation over confrontation and solidarity over fear.

Guterres further called on member states to uphold the United Nations Charter and international law, while strengthening the organisation to ensure it remains capable of responding to the challenges of the present and future.