Director-General's remarks at the UN 80th Anniversary Youth Event Next80: “Transforming Tomorrow Together”

UN 80th Anniversary Youth Event
Next80: “Transforming Tomorrow Together”

Thursday, 26 June 2025, at 2.00 p.m.
Room XXII, Palais des Nations

Excellencies, 
Ladies and gentlemen, 
Dear students,

Welcome to this special event marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.  

It was on this day, 26 June, in 1945, that the Charter of the United Nations was signed in San Francisco, before coming into effect a few months later, on 24 October. 

Today, 80 years later, the Charter is as relevant as it was at the time. And this anniversary is not just a moment to reflect on our history, but importantly, to look to the future. This event will focus on hearing and valuing the perspectives and ideas of young people and exploring together the critical contribution of youth to the multilateralism of the future.   

As we gather today, we are reminded of the founding promise of the UN: to build a better, more peaceful, and more just world, not only for ourselves, but for future generations.  

The foresight scenarios you will present today are more than academic exercises. They are a chance for us to actively support and experience what multilateralism can be when young people are empowered to lead, innovate and shape global solutions. 

We know that the challenges we face - from the climate crisis and growing inequalities to devastating conflicts and the widening digital divide - demand effective, inclusive global action. That is why, at last year’s Summit of the Future, Member States made historic commitments to put youth and future generations at the centre of global policymaking. The Declaration on Future Generations calls on us to ensure that your voices are not just heard but are truly included and valued in every decision that shapes our collective future. 

Today’s event is just one way we can honor that commitment.

Dear Students,

I encourage you to imagine boldly, and to speak openly. Let us work together to make the United Nations a place where intergenerational dialogue is the norm, and where young people are partners at every decision-making table. 

Thank you for your work, your ideas, and your determination to build a better future. I look forward to learning from your scenarios and to the lively discussion that will follow.

Thank you.