‘We need all hands on deck!’ The world’s ‘to-do list’ is long and time is short, UN deputy chief tells Global Citizen Festival
“Tell it like this: Our world is in big trouble. And we are facing crisis after crisis: People are hurting – and our planet is on fire. Hunger is on the rise – and we are becoming much more unequal. War is raging – and human rights are under attack,” the deputy secretary-general told the crowd gathered for the tenth year in New York’s iconic Central Park.
There is still hope!
“But let me tell you this: We are not hopeless… Are we?” She asked and rallied festival-goers by noting some of the more transformative goals that can be achieved with united action: “A peaceful world is not impossible. A world without extreme hunger is not impossible. And deepening inequalities is not impossible.”
The Global Citizen Festival is an annual music event where fans take actions to end extreme poverty to earn free tickets. It brings together artists, activists, world leaders, philanthropists, corporate leaders, etc. This year’s gathering was held in two locations – New York City, and for the first time, Accra capital of Ghana.
The festival is held at the same time every year High-level opening of the United Nations General Assembly Take advantage of opportunities to secure policy and financial commitments from government, business and philanthropic leaders to defeat poverty, demand equity and protect the planet.
‘Are you the change we’ve been waiting for?’
On Saturday night, Ms. Mohammed told the enthusiastic crowd that a truly peaceful world free of poverty “is the world we have promised ourselves, through Agenda 2030 United Nations and the Global Goals,” refers to a 17-point action plan to end poverty, protect the planet, and improve the lives and prospects of everyone, everywhere.
But she warns that time is running out – fast. “Only look at Pakistan and the tragedy of an extreme climate event. And there will be another one tomorrow,” and declares: “We have oneThings to do‘ – those are the 17 Global Goals – and we need all of your help.
Tell the Global Citizens gathered in New York that they must demand accountability from world leaders and demand action for climate justice, gender equality and social justice now.
“Your voice matters. Your actions have value. Turn your frustrations into positive change,” said Mohammed, adding: “We are betting on you. I’m betting on you. And you can bet on the United Nations. My question to you is: Are you the change we’ve been waiting for? Are you the change we’ve been waiting for? ”
