The UN General Assembly’s 2025 General Debate, held on Wednesday, brought together world leaders to address pressing global challenges, from peace and justice to the need for institutional reform. While some voices grabbed the spotlight, others delivered profound messages that deserve attention. Here’s a closer look at the compelling words from leaders who may not have dominated headlines but left a lasting impact with their calls for equality, accountability, and peace.

Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio emphasized the equal weight of small nations, stating, “Small states are not inherently small. Our sovereignty is equal, and our responsibilities are the same. Leadership is not the loudest voice in the room. It is the clearest voice for justice.” His words underscored the importance of every nation’s role in global governance, urging a focus on fairness over dominance.

King Don Felipe VI of Spain highlighted the critical role of international rules, warning, “Rules shape behaviours to which the vast majority of international actors adhere. Even when they are breached, they provide a basis for accountability and enforcement. A world without rules is uncharted territory. A time without rules is returning to the Middle Ages.” His remarks called for a renewed commitment to a rules-based global order to prevent chaos.

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Kenya’s President William Ruto addressed the need for institutional evolution, noting, “Institutions rarely fail because they lack vision or ideals. More often, they drift into irrelevance when they do not adapt, when they hesitate to act and when they lose legitimacy.” He urged the UN and other global bodies to reform and align with today’s realities to remain effective.

Estonia’s President Alar Karis took a firm stand against ongoing global conflicts, declaring, “Brutality prevails. We simply cannot let this go on.” His concise yet powerful statement reflected a growing urgency to address violence and instability worldwide.

Croatia’s President Zoran Milanovic offered a nuanced view of peace, saying, “Peace is more than silencing the guns. It requires preventing new wars and breaking the cycles of violence from the past.” His words emphasized the need for proactive measures to foster lasting peace.

These leaders’ remarks highlight the diverse perspectives shaping the UNGA 2025 discussions. From advocating for equitable representation to calling for stronger global frameworks, their voices add depth to the global dialogue. As the world grapples with complex challenges, their insights remind us that leadership, accountability, and peace are universal priorities that demand collective action.

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