Swiss President, at General Assembly, highlights crucial role of UN in solving crises

With the world facing a massive immigration crisis, multiple armed conflicts and economic disruption, a strong United Nations is more necessary than ever, Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann told the General Assembly today on the opening day of its General Debate.

“Since the start of the 20th century our generation is the first not to have lived through a world war. The UN has largely contributed to this result, even if it must be agreed that there are too many regional conflicts and this produce too many victims,” he said.

He cited the UN’s “tireless efforts” in mobilizing international efforts in numerous fields from cutting poverty in half to increasing life expectancy to improving global education.

“I am firmly convinced that the only viable responses to contemporary challenges are collective solutions effected in solidarity,” Mr. Schneider-Ammann said.

“To bring these about, the international community needs a strong, modern and efficient UN. The path is thus set before us. It is now up to us together to accompany this Organization with foresight and determination.