Holiday Season Message
by
The President of the General Assembly
H.E. Dennis Francis
Video link: https://youtu.be/XULyBnBK6Dc
2023 —> 2024
Greetings to you all!
This has been a year of unusual trial and pain.
Conflict and war have intruded where Peace, albeit uneasily poised, existed before, shattering lives, livelihoods, and whole communities.
The evidence indicates that the majority of those civilians killed as a consequence of war have been women and children.
Record numbers of humanitarian workers have lost their lives, in the process of seeking to honour humanity by providing care and support to the ailing and maimed, and to those seeking refuge in humanitarian facilities.
Dozens of journalists have been the brunt of state–instigated reprisals, ending in their death, simply for reporting the plain truth in the media.
Inflation has affected every household, and business and;
People are finding it increasingly difficult to distinguish between facts or truth and fiction (fake news) through the perverse use of new and ever-changing technologies.
2023 has been the hottest year on record indicating the extent to which climate change demands urgent climate action; and
Migration, instigated by climate change, as well as other factors such as economic, political and security issues has emerged as a major global issue requiring effective intervention and management,
Where does all of these leave us?
The arrival of the new year carries a profound spirit of renewal and of hope.
Let this new year be one of increased human kinship that strengthens global dialogue and cooperation.
In the glow of holiday lights, may our collective efforts illuminate the path to a harmonious future.
May the spirit of solidarity inspire our creativity in addressing shared concerns for both People and Planet.
And forge a path to Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability for All.
I extend warm greetings to the global community for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
