Our world is in a desperate situation’, assured the high representative in statements to the press after his presentation at the high-level segment of the XV Brics Summit.

The UN official listed among the main challenges facing the planet the worsening climate emergency, the escalation of conflicts, the global crisis in the cost of living, growing inequalities and technological disruptions.

‘This is a time to unite and work together. But instead, divisions are growing and tensions are rising,’ he warned.

In that scenario, it is essential to pay special attention to Africa, a continent that is underrepresented in the global financial architecture, just as it lacks a permanent seat on the Security Council, he said.

If we are not able to reform our institutions to ensure that they reassume a truly universal character, we run the risk of fragmentation, and fragmentation may be one day a factor of confrontation,’ he added.

A new social contract based on respect for all human rights – social, cultural, economic, civil and political – is needed in every society.

The secretary general recalled the urgency of promoting environmental measures for the planet as well as to save economies and reduce inequalities.

Developed countries have a particular responsibility to lead and abide by them,’ he added.

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