Multilateral

• UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the multilateral system is straining under fractured geopolitics during his opening address at the 81st UN General Assembly. • Guterres cited a combination of nuclear escalation risks, worsening climate chaos, and declining financial resources for humanitarian operations. • These systemic failures increase the risk of humanitarian suffering and record migration for vulnerable populations worldwide.

Follow the day’s news liveVictoria has highest rate of car theft and home burglary claims in ICA dataMelbourne recorded more insurance claims for stolen and broken-into cars than all other Australian capital cities combined, according to data analysis by the Insurance Council of Australia.The insurance data shows Victoria has a crime problem, and it is being felt directly by households, businesses and communities.I think it was hoped that they might but, you know, all countries have their own decisions to make. We all want the same thing and nobody says this is easy.I don’t know the basis upon which she’s made a decision not to be involved with us, but I’m sure that you know she believes that what she’s doing is in the interests of Palestinians and in the interests of justice.I’m always happy to talk to my Australian friends and maybe even persuade them. Continue reading...

• UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in Bishkek, calling for global institutions to be reformed to reflect modern geopolitical realities. • Guterres urged for stronger multilateralism and specifically demanded that the ceasefire in Gaza be respected to protect civilians. • He called for the full implementation of the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict and the immediate removal of obstacles hindering humanitarian relief.

• The World Government Summit (WGS) Dialogue hosted a virtual event titled ‘The Future of Global Leadership,’ featuring seven candidates for UN Secretary-General, including former presidents and ambassadors. • Participants debated the future of multilateralism, with candidates urging the UN to rebuild global trust and increase agility when responding to geopolitical tensions. • Former President Michelle Bachelet emphasized the need for the UN to become more representative and fair, shifting its focus toward crisis prevention and diplomacy rather than reactive measures.

• CCG President Huiyao Wang spoke at the Dubrovnik Forum 2026 regarding the necessity of building a multilateral system tailored for a multipolar world. • Wang emphasized the importance of BRICS and middle powers in reforming global cooperation and argued against the utility of temporary geopolitical alliances. • He positioned China as a peaceful, stabilizing force in the region, citing China's recent role in helping to resolve the conflict between Cambodia and Thailand.

• Morocco has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening global humanitarian action, guided by the humanist vision of King Mohammed VI. • The initiative calls for systemic reforms, including increased investment in prevention, improved coordination with development efforts, and renewed global solidarity. • Key challenges identified include critical funding shortages, restricted access to affected areas, the politicization of aid, and the persistence of "forgotten crises."

• India announced it will continue banning bilateral sports events with Pakistan while permitting Pakistani athletes to compete in multilateral tournaments hosted in India. • The policy shift aims to position New Delhi as a global sports hub, as stated in an official release from New Delhi on Thursday. • This comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, balancing diplomacy with national security concerns in sports diplomacy.