Why UN chief António Guterres is warning against a world run by one power
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned against unilateral or hegemonic approaches to global problems and urged countries to rely instead on shared responsibility and stronger multilateral cooperation.
Speaking to journalists at UN Headquarters this week, Guterres said the world is entering a period of growing instability, describing 2026 as “already shaping up to be a year of constant surprises and chaos.”
He said reckless actions by powerful actors are triggering dangerous consequences, and stressed that global challenges cannot be solved by one country imposing its will.
“Global problems will not be solved by one power calling the shots,” he said. “Nor will they be solved by two powers carving the world into rival spheres of influence.”
Guterres argued that the world is shifting toward multipolarity, but warned that this transition must be “networked, inclusive by design,” and grounded in partnerships rather than competition.
“For multipolarity to generate equilibrium, prosperity and peace, we need strong multilateral institutions where legitimacy is rooted in shared responsibility and shared values,” he said.
Concerns over private tech power
The UN chief also highlighted the growing influence of private technology companies, warning that unregulated platforms and artificial intelligence systems are increasingly shaping elections, markets and even conflicts.
“When technologies that shape behaviour, elections, markets, and even conflicts operate without guardrails,” he said, “the reaction is not innovation, it is instability.” He called for global governance frameworks to ensure AI and emerging technologies are used responsibly.
Final-year priorities
In what is expected to be his final year leading the United Nations, Guterres outlined key priorities focused on peace, development and institutional reform.
He said the UN is pushing for “just and sustainable peace rooted in international law,” including efforts that address the root causes of conflict rather than temporary ceasefires.
Guterres also highlighted the need to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, reform the Security Council, and strengthen the global financial system to better support vulnerable countries.
On climate change, he called for greater equity in helping nations facing repeated climate catastrophes.
Guterres closed by urging governments to act with responsibility in an increasingly troubled international environment.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
