The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, warned on the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter, that the foundational document of world peace is threatened as never before – states are only choosing what suits them from it.

“We are witnessing a familiar pattern: we adhere to the Charter when it suits us, otherwise we ignore it,” Guterres declared in a speech before the 193 member states of the UN. He emphasized that the UN Charter is not an "optional menu," but a **fundamental basis of international relations** that must be respected in its entirety.

He reminded that upholding the principles of the Charter is a continuous commitment and urged world leaders to recommit to international law, not just in words, but also in deeds.

“On this anniversary, I call on all member states to embody the spirit and letter of the Charter – for peace, justice, progress, and for us, humanity,” Guterres said.

The UN Charter was adopted on June 25, 1945, at the Conference in San Francisco, and signed the following day. For 80 years, it has served as the cornerstone of global diplomacy – and, according to Guterres, it is time to defend it as such.

CMG