Deputy Prime Minister The Rt Hon David Lammy MP Addresses United Nations General Debate, 80th Session
Deputy Prime Minister The Rt Hon David Lammy MP opened his address by conveying greetings from His Majesty The King and offering heartfelt congratulations to the United Nations on its 80th anniversary. He underscored Britain’s recognition of the UN as a cornerstone of international cooperation and peace building, setting the tone for a speech rooted in respect for global institutions and shared values. Having witnessed the United Nations’ work throughout his life, His Majesty The King has asked me to offer a personal message of his congratulations to the U.N. on its eightieth anniversary. The U.N. is a powerful testament to our collective determination for a better world.
The King recalls that, on the eve of the first U.N. General Assembly, His Majesty’s grandfather, King George VI, told the delegates gathered in London: ‘in the long course of our history, no more important meeting has ever taken place within its boundaries.’
Millions of people across the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the wider international community share the view that the UN’s founding principles and the work of its Organisations remain essential, particularly as the world must face new and pressing challenges.
Let us reaffirm these principles as the United Nations responds to today’s realities and evolves for tomorrow’s challenges.”
Turning to today’s most urgent conflicts, The Rt Hon David Lammy MP began with Gaza. He called for an immediate ceasefire to end the suffering, stressing the vital importance of humanitarian access and the pursuit of lasting peace that ensures security and dignity for both Palestinians and Israelis. Moving on to Ukraine, he reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s unwavering support for Ukrainian sovereignty in the face of Russian aggression, making clear that the defence of international law must be universal, not selective. He also addressed the deepening crisis in Sudan, urging the world to act collectively to ease the escalating humanitarian catastrophe.
Shifting the focus from conflict to cooperation, Deputy Prime Minister The Rt Hon David spoke of the UN’s central role in navigating transformative global challenges. He highlighted the urgent need for collaboration on climate change, sustainable development, and the governance of emerging technologies. Artificial intelligence, he noted, holds immense potential but must be guided by international rules to serve humanity rather than sow division.
In closing, Deputy Prime Minister The Rt Hon David Lammy MP affirmed Britain’s enduring commitment to multilateralism. He stressed that the United Kingdom stands firmly with the UN Charter, not in defence of one nation at the expense of another, but in pursuit of fairness, justice, and a shared future. His final words underscored Britain’s determination to shoulder the responsibilities of global leadership, working with all nations to uphold peace, international law, and the spirit of cooperation.
