United Nations General Assembly convenes in New York amid global crises

The United Nations General Assembly began its annual session in New York on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. World leaders are gathered to address pressing international issues, including the escalating conflict in the Middle East involving Iran, the ongoing four-year war in Ukraine, and the rapid development of artificial intelligence. The discussions occur alongside significant economic pressures from the United States and intense diplomatic deliberations regarding the future leadership of the organization.

A central focus of the session is the selection of the next UN Secretary-General from among seven candidates. During the third informal vote of the UN Security Council, Rebeca Grynspan, former Vice President of Costa Rica and current head of UNCTAD, narrowly secured the lead with nine votes, ahead of Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana, who received eight. The selection process is expected to conclude under the Greek presidency in October, with candidates currently lobbying the fifteen members of the Security Council to finalize their appointments.