Originally published on the CGS blog on September 23, 2009.
President Barack Obama gave his first speech in front of the United Nations General Assembly this morning. President Obama pointed out that “speeches alone will not solve our problems.” He called for the international community to share the responsibility of tremendous global challenges that face us all. He was very clear that the United States could not and will not solve the world’s plights alone, and only through international cooperation and “a new era of engagement” can we begin a fresh path towards solutions to problems that we have failed to alleviate in the past.
President Obama stated that, “the world must stand together to demonstrate that international law is not an empty promise.” He proposed four pillars that are fundamental for the world’s future and must be a foundation for universal accord between nations to transpire. These four pillars are nonproliferation and disarmament of nuclear weapons, promotion of peace and security, preservation of the planet, and a global economy that would advance opportunity for all people. He expanded on these points by expressing how essential they are to our international security, well-being, and addressing these topics must not be delayed any longer.
Even though Obama’s speech sent a stern message to world leaders that responsibility must be taken, there is a feeling of support for Obama’s administration at the United Nations. President Obama was not unwilling to point out that the United States and its partners have had their share of international failures. His speech and the many others given at the United Nations this week may not solve our problems, but they are new beginning point for a new direction that can create tangible advancements in international collaboration for the innovation of global solutions.
Watch speeches from the United Nations live from the UN Webcast.
Act now to support nuclear disarmament.
Act now to preserve our planet and environment.
