Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday emphasized the need for a “strengthened and updated” United Nations to better reach and support people around the world.
Amid multifaceted crises ranging from conflicts to climate, and poverty and inequality, the world looks to the UN “to help deliver the better, safer and greener world we need,” Mr. Guterres said.
“But we cannot solve 21st century problems with 20th century tools – we need a UN 2.0,” he stressed, in a message opening the UN 2.0 week.
The transformation in skills and culture, encapsulated in the UN chief’s vision of a UN 2.0, is focused on fostering cutting-edge capabilities in data, digital solutions, innovation, foresight and behavioural science – to deliver stronger results and help countries accelerate efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Secretary-General’s vision is elaborated in a policy brief launched last September.
‘Forward-thinking culture’
In his message on Monday, Mr. Guterres also emphasized the need for a “forward-thinking culture” at the Organization, powered by rapid technological advances.
He added that this was particularly important given the fundamental changes proposed in Our Common Agenda, his vision for global cooperation and getting the SDGs back on track, as well as the Summit of the Future, which will be convened on 22-23 September in New York.
“We’re already seeing what is possible: From online resources for remote schools, to humanitarian aid based on real-time data, and technology that helps countries forecast and build resilience to disasters,” the UN chief said.
“Ultimately, UN 2.0 will make us better partners for countries as they achieve results for their people.”
UN 2.0 Week High-Level Opening
What is UN 2.0
Also speaking at the opening, Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed explained that UN 2.0 is the Organization’s response to how “we will pivot and meet the world where it is at and where it needs to go”.
“Thinking about what that means for investing in our staff, but also attending to many of the ‘quintet of change’ issues,” she added, noting the five topics – data, digital solutions, innovation, foresight and behavioural science.
She expressed hope that the transformations will make the UN more fit for purpose.
“That we can actually get out there and raise the ambitions, and be more responsive for the needs,” she added.
UN 2.0 Week
Taking place from 22 to 26 April, UN 2.0 Week showcases a series of virtual events including panel discussions and best practice sharing dialogues. Over 40 speakers from across the UN system and partner organizations are slated to speak.
Click here to find out more about and sign up for the UN 2.0 Week events.
Simon Blake is an experienced journalist deeply interested in international affairs and global development. Having spent years reporting on humanitarian issues, he offers a unique perspective in his coverage of United Nations news.
As a devoted supporter of the United Nations, I fully agree with Secretary-General Guterres that it’s essential to evolve into a UN 2.0 to effectively tackle the modern challenges we face. The call for a shift in culture and the embrace of cutting-edge technologies are crucial steps towards a brighter, more sustainable future. Let’s rally behind the vision of a forward-thinking UN to ensure we can meet the demands of the 21st century successfully.
Amid multifaceted crises ranging from conflicts to climate, and poverty and inequality, it is evident that the world calls for a more innovative and effective United Nations. Mr. Guterres is right in emphasizing the need for a UN 2.0 to address 21st-century challenges. We cannot rely on outdated methods to tackle modern problems; a transformation in skills and culture is vital. Looking forward to seeing the UN embracing cutting-edge capabilities to drive impactful results and accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Exciting times ahead!
Is the concept of UN 2.0 also focusing on enhancing collaboration with grassroots organizations and local communities?
Yes, EmilySmith123. The idea of UN 2.0 includes not only upgrading the organization itself but also strengthening partnerships and engagement with grassroots organizations and local communities to address modern challenges more effectively.
As a global citizen, I fully support Secretary-General António Guterres’ call for upgrading to ‘UN 2.0’. The challenges of today require innovative solutions and a forward-thinking approach. It’s time to embrace a more agile and tech-savvy United Nations to effectively address the pressing issues facing our world.
It’s crucial that the UN adapts to the rapidly evolving challenges of the 21st century. Mr. Guterres rightly points out the necessity for a UN 2.0 with advanced tools and a forward-thinking culture to effectively address conflicts, climate issues, poverty, and inequality. This upgrade is essential for delivering the better, safer, and greener world we all aspire to.
As a longtime supporter of the UN’s mission, I completely agree with Mr. Guterres that it’s essential to upgrade to UN 2.0 to effectively address the complex challenges of our time. The focus on digital solutions and innovation is key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating a better future for all.
Amid multifaceted crises ranging from conflicts to climate, and poverty and inequality, the world looks to the UN “to help deliver the better, safer and greener world we need,” Mr. Guterres said. “But we cannot solve 21st century problems with 20th century tools – we need a UN 2.0,” she stressed, in a message opening the UN 2.0 week. The transformation in skills and culture, encapsulated in the UN chief’s vision of a UN 2.0, is focused on fostering cutting-edge capabilities in data, digital solutions, innovation, foresight, and behavioral science – to deliver stronger results and help countries accelerate efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Secretary-General’s vision is elaborated in a policy brief launched last September.
Do you think the proposed changes for ‘UN 2.0’ will truly improve its effectiveness in addressing modern challenges?