A Defining Week at the UN
World leaders are in New York this week for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) under the theme “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights.” The gathering comes amid heightened tensions, with ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza shaping the diplomatic backdrop.
The General Assembly opens today, Tuesday, with Secretary-General António Guterres addressing delegates. Tuesday’s speakers include the leaders of Brazil, the United States, Mexico, France, and South Africa, followed on Wednesday by leaders from Ukraine, Iran, and Argentina. Guterres will meet with President Trump during the high-level week, describing it as a “good opportunity to strengthen the cooperation between the United Nations and the US.”
Climate Agenda in Focus
On Wednesday, the UN will host a climate summit where world leaders are expected to present new national climate action plans ahead of COP30 in Brazil this November. Across the city, Climate Week NYC is convening leaders from business, technology, academia, and civil society to accelerate action on the climate crisis.
Thursday: SDG Leaders Luncheon Launches SDG News
On Thursday, September 25, the SDG Leaders Luncheon at UN Headquarters will mark the official launch of SDG News. Timed to the ten-year anniversary of the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals, the high-level gathering will bring together heads of government, CEOs, philanthropists, impact investors, and civic leaders to set the course for the decisive decade ahead.
Balancing substantive programming with high-level networking, the luncheon will spotlight courageous leadership, catalytic partnerships, and transformative solutions advancing the SDGs.
Official Media Partner, Clear Mission
From September 21–25, SDG News is serving as the Official Media Partner of the UN Global Compact’s flagship events—positioning the platform as the media home for leaders shaping global resilience and prosperity. As world leaders, investors, and civil society convene, SDG News will inform, inspire, and amplify solutions, providing a trusted venue for visibility at the center of UNGA.
Why It Matters
Launching during UNGA80—midway to 2030—underscores urgency. With global cooperation under strain and overlapping crises testing institutions, the SDG Leaders Luncheon is designed to elevate solutions, strengthen partnerships, and focus attention on delivery in the decisive decade for sustainable development.
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