Strength of United Nations Lies in People ‘Who Refuse to Give Up’, Says Secretary-General at UN@80 Commemoration Event

Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres' remarks at the commemoration of UN@80: A Living Legacy event, in New York today:

I am going to be brief this evening because I know the real stars of this evening's show. This celebration of the eightieth anniversary of the United Nations is special because of you.

In this Hall, and joining us online, are people who have devoted their lives to service, to action, to hope. Women and men of the United Nations. Diplomats, partners in civil society, artists, advocates and changemakers.

You are the living proof that the world changes - not just through declarations, but through dedication, through courage, through the quiet, persistent work of people who refuse to give up.

This evening - through film, music and stories - we will witness that truth. We will be reminded that it is often in the darkest hours - when despair looms and division deepens - that humanity comes together to make history.

The theme of tonight's gathering is living legacy, and the key word is living. The United Nations is not just a set of buildings. It is not just words on paper, it is alive - in you.

It lives in every peacekeeper who stands between conflict and calm. In every humanitarian worker who reaches the unreachable. In every diplomat who chooses dialogue over discord. In all of you who understand that global problems demand global solutions.

We are all privileged to be part of one of the most ambitious and profound undertakings in human history: The decision - despite our differences - to solve problems together. To work sincerely, creatively and humbly towards a better future for all. It is not easy. It is often difficult. Sometimes dangerous. But, we choose to work.

Because eight decades of wars prevented, children educated, diseases cured and lives saved, tell us one thing: That anything - and everything - is possible when we stand united. So, tonight, let us celebrate not only what has been achieved - but what still lies ahead.

Let us honour the legacy we have inherited - and commit to the legacy we will leave behind. Let us keep the living legacy going - and growing - for one and all.