The Takeaway: UN General Assembly debate Day 1
A warning from the top: The world is at a crossroads
Why it matters: The opening day of UN General Assembly’s annual debate struck a sombre tone, with leaders describing a world increasingly fractured by conflict, rivalry and weakening respect for international law.
Trust in the UN is under pressure
The big picture: Several leaders argued that the credibility of multilateralism now depends less on promises and more on performance.
Security Council reform is back at the centre
What we're hearing: A growing number of leaders linked today's geopolitical tensions to international institutions they say no longer reflect current realities.
Gaza dominates discussion of international law
Reality check: No issue generated stronger language about the state of the international order than the war in Gaza.
Amid the gloom, a case for cooperation
One bright spot: Not every intervention focused on breakdown and dysfunction.