Celebrity Media Special Report: The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. Expo Osaka 2025, scheduled for April, attracts worldwide attention. In an interview with UN News, Mr. Maher, the United Nations Commissioner General at Expo 2025, highlighted the key elements and exciting features of the UN's participation, generating widespread anticipation.
Mr. Maher emphasized: “We all wish to thrive on a planet of peace, dignity, equality, and health. I believe that is the true beauty of the Expo, not the buildings, but the people.”
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The theme of Expo Osaka 2025 is “Designing the Future Society for Our Lives”, with three sub-themes: “Saving Lives, Connecting Lives, Empowering Lives”. The UN's participation will focus on these themes, centered on serving people. As 2025 also marks the 80th anniversary of the UN, the UN pavilion will be divided into three parts: a reflection on history, engagement with the present, and a vision for the future.
The first part of the pavilion will review the UN's journey over the past 80 years, highlighting historic achievements in global cooperation. The second part illustrates how the UN is deeply integrated into people's daily lives today. Whether it is mobile communications promoted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), postal services by the Universal Postal Union, or vaccination and child welfare efforts by WHO and UNICEF, the UN system has become indispensable.
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The third part focuses on the future, with the theme “Uniting for a Better Future”, exploring what the world would look like if the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were fully achieved. The UN pavilion, with the sub-theme “Saving, Empowering, and Connecting Lives Together”, will clearly explain how UN agencies play key roles in humanitarian action and other fields.
Furthermore, during the six months of the Expo, the UN has planned an intense schedule of events, collaborating with other national pavilions to advance global issues such as the SDGs, human rights, peace and security, as well as equality. The UN will also actively participate in the virtual Expo, allowing the global public who cannot physically travel to Osaka to experience the UN pavilion online.
Mr. Maher emphasized that the Expo is not directly a place for problem-solving, but a platform to promote mutual human understanding. Dubai Expo 2020 is an example, allowing one to “visit” 190 countries without boarding a plane. He stated that the Expo fosters global partnerships, attracting not only tourists but also companies showcasing new products and technologies, thereby enhancing cultural exchange and innovation.
He specifically mentioned that the UN encourages all participating countries to highlight sustainability and concrete actions towards achieving the 2030 SDGs. He commended the efforts of many national pavilions and suggested that visitors interact with the pavilion staff, who are true ambassadors, showcasing their country's unique culture and contributions to the world.
“We all wish to thrive on a planet of peace, dignity, equality, and health,” reiterated Mr. Maher. “That is the true beauty of the Expo, not the buildings, but the people.”
UN Photo/Laura Jarriel The Pact of the Future was adopted at a summit at UN Headquarters in September 2024.
Strengthening international cooperation and delivering on a UN pact that calls for reforming global governance, among other measures, was the focus of debate in the Security Council on Tuesday.
The ministerial-level meeting was convened by China, which holds the rotating Council presidency this month, as the UN prepares to mark its 80th anniversary later this year.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres opened the debate emphasizing that “global solidarity and solutions are needed more than ever” as the climate crisis rages and inequalities and poverty increase.
Peace remains illusive
“As this Council knows well, peace is getting pushed further out of reach — from the Occupied Palestinian Territory to Ukraine to Sudan to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and beyond,” he said.
“Terrorism and violent extremism remain persistent scourges. We see a dark spirit of impunity spreading. The prospect of nuclear war remains – outrageously – a clear and present danger.”
Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) are also a challenge as their “limitless promise…is matched by limitless peril to undermine and even replace human thought, human identity and human control.”
UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe
Pact for the Future
Mr. Guterres said “these global challenges cry out for multilateral solutions,” and pointed to the Pact for the Future, adopted by Member States last September.
The agreement “is aimed at strengthening global governance for the 21st century and rebuilding trust” in multilateralism, the UN, and the Security Council.
Provisions include advancing coordination with regional organizations and ensuring the full participation of women, youth and marginalized groups in peace processes.
The Pact outlines support for a stimulus plan to help developing countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and revitalized commitment to reform the post-war global financial architecture to better serve the modern world.
It also contains a Global Digital Compact that calls for an AI governance body that allows developing countries to participate in decision-making, marking a first.
Security Council reform
“The Pact also recognizes that the Security Council must reflect the world of today, not the world of 80 years ago, and sets out important principles to guide this long-awaited reform,” said Mr. Guterres.
The Council should be enlarged and made more representative of today’s geopolitical realities, while countries also must continue to improve its working methods to make the body more inclusive, transparent, efficient, democratic and accountable.
He recalled that these issues have been under consideration by the UN General Assembly for more than a decade.
Build on momentum
“Now is the time to build on the momentum provided by the Pact for the Future, and work towards a greater consensus among regional groups and Member States – including the permanent members of this Council – to move the intergovernmental negotiations forward,” he said.
“Throughout, I call on Members of this Council to overcome the divisions that are blocking effective action for peace.”
He noted that Council members have shown reaching common ground is possible, for example through deploying peacekeeping operations and forging resolutions on humanitarian aid.
Spirited compromise
“Even in the darkest days of the Cold War, the collective decision-making and vigorous dialogue in this Council maintained a functioning, if imperfect, system of collective security,” he said.
“I urge you to summon this same spirit, continue working to overcome differences and focus on building the consensus required to deliver the peace all people need and deserve.”
The Secretary-General said multilateral cooperation is the beating heart of the United Nations, and guided by the solutions in the Pact for the Future, it can become an even more powerful instrument of peace,
“As we look to the challenges around us, I urge all Member States to continue strengthening and updating our global problem-solving mechanisms,” he said. “Let’s make them fit for purpose – fit for people – and fit for peace.”
UN Photo/Manuel Elías
China stresses need to uphold sovereignty
The meeting was chaired by China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi who presented four proposals to the Council, including the need to uphold sovereign equality while advancing global governance.
“We must respect the development acts chosen independently by people of all countries, uphold the principle of non-interference in internal affairs, and not impose one's will upon others,” he said.
Countries also must “practice international rule of law, ensure the effective implementation of international law and reject double standards and selective application.”
Mr. Wang said Security Council resolutions are binding and should be observed by all countries. The Council is also entrusted with authority which all nations should uphold.
“Any act of bullying, trickery or extortion is a flagrant violation of the basic norms of international relations. Any unilateral sanction that circumvents Security Council authorization lacks legal basis, defies justification and contradicts common sense,” he said.
Furthermore, a critical part of global governance is ensuring justice prevails, as “international affairs should no longer be monopolized by a small number of countries.”
He said nations of the Global South “have the right to speak up for and defend their legitimate rights and interests, and the fruits of development should no longer be taken by just a few countries.”
Meanwhile, Security Council reform “should continue to emphasize democratic consultation, increase the representation and say of developing countries, especially African countries, and effectively address historical injustice.”
UN Photo/Manuel Elías
Western countries undermining UN authority: Russia
Despite its strengths and weakness, the UN has fulfilled its founding purpose of preventing a new World War, Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya told the meeting.
He warned, however, that the world is “teetering on the brink of a direct military confrontation between nuclear powers” as western countries undermine UN authority and the primacy of international law.
“We are witnessing a broad application of the practice of unilateral coercive measures being imposed whenever supporters of methods of force in global politics do not manage to push through their desired outcome at the Security Council,” he said.
“Failure to abide by the UN Charter and a reckless approach to Security Council resolutions on a number of acute international issues has now become the hallmark of the West,” he added.
Regarding efforts to resolve the crisis in Ukraine, he said “it is becoming clear who genuinely advocates a more fair, more equal world, and who are living in the past and are striving at any cost to make their geopolitical agendas a reality.”
UN Photo/Manuel Elías
Redouble efforts to address emerging challenges: UK
United Kingdom Ambassador Barbara Woodward underlined her country’s commitment to the UN.
“As the Secretary-General reminded us and so many speakers today have reiterated, the Pact of the Future demonstrated a clear desire and a clear commitment to reinvigorate the multilateral system, including through reforming the UN and the international financial system,” she said.
She called for new approaches to address emerging challenges, and 2025 – which marks the UN’s 80th anniversary and a year of key summits – is the first step.
The summits will cover issues such as gender equality, ocean preservation, financing for development, and climate change.
“Together, these summits seek to address our shared concerns. Their success is critical for progress and the UN’s reputation as our multilateral home,” she said.
UN Photo/Manuel Elías
US to scrutinize support to the UN
United States Ambassador Dorothy Shea recalled that her country helped found the UN after the Second World War, “but UN agencies and bodies overall have drifted from their core missions,” she said.
“We need to take a closer look at where this institution is falling short,” she continued. “For example, there is a longstanding, deep anti-Israel bias within the UN that has only grown stronger since Hamas’ brutal attack against Israel on October 7, 2023.”
Regarding the Security Council, she said critical issues that demand attention continually fall by the wayside.
Ms. Shea said the US is currently conducting a review of its support to the UN. It will consider whether the actions of the Organization are serving American interests, and whether reform is now due.
She said the US will not support UN bodies such as the Human Rights Council and will review those such as cultural agency UNESCO “which has a history of antisemitism or anti-Israel sentiment within the organization.”
Celebrity Media Commentator: Yesterday, a meeting hosted by Maher Nasser, Director of the Civil Society Outreach Division of the United Nations Department of Global Communications, officially began at 11:00 AM. UN General Assembly President Philemon Yang and his Chief of Staff attended the meeting, engaging in dialogue and answering questions from representatives worldwide, including those from Arab regions, to discuss ways to advance the implementation of the Pact for the Future. Civil society organizations, faith-based groups, and youth leaders actively participated in the discussions on key global challenges and future development.
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The Key Role of Civil Society During the meeting, UNGA President Philemon Yang reaffirmed his commitment to collaboration with civil society, recognizing its indispensable role in promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development. Civil society organizations, particularly faith-based groups, foster solidarity and trust through interfaith dialogue, emphasizing shared values such as justice, nonviolence, and reconciliation. These efforts serve as essential bridges between nations. Yang’s remarks underscored the unique role of civil society in advancing the UN agenda, especially in today’s world, where uncertainties continue to grow. Civil society’s engagement is more critical than ever in addressing global challenges.
Global Challenges and the Implementation of the Pact for the Future The meeting highlighted that the success of the Pact for the Future depends on the joint efforts of governments, international organizations, and civil society. The agreement aims to address major global issues, including debt crises, the digital divide, climate change, and social inequalities. However, progress remains slow, raising concerns about the mechanisms for accountability, inclusivity, and sustained implementation.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development promises to “leave no one behind,” but its implementation has faced setbacks due to economic slowdowns and worsening climate conditions. As a result, advancing the Pact for the Future and the Declaration for Future Generations has become an urgent priority to accelerate progress on sustainable development goals.
Youth Concerns and Nuclear Disarmament Youth representatives at the meeting expressed deep concern over UN Security Council reform. They argued that the current global security framework needs greater democracy and transparency to effectively address modern challenges. Nuclear disarmament was a particular focus, with youth leaders urging concrete steps to encourage more nations to join the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. They stressed that true global security cannot rely solely on military deterrence but must be built on diplomatic dialogue and international cooperation.
Future Vision: Cross-Sectoral Cooperation for Sustainable Development Looking ahead, the meeting reached a consensus that the future success of global governance depends on building strong cross-sectoral partnerships. All stakeholders must work together to tackle health inequities, climate change, and social justice issues to protect vulnerable populations. The discussion emphasized that the Pact for the Future should not be just a commitment on paper but a guiding framework for action, driving real progress through innovation and collaboration.
The Power of Civil Society Must Not Be Overlooked This meeting once again demonstrated that the UN’s role in global governance extends beyond intergovernmental dialogue—civil society organizations are equally crucial players in international cooperation. The implementation of the Pact for the Future requires political will from governments, but it also depends on continued advocacy and oversight from non-governmental organizations. The UN must fully leverage the wisdom and influence of civil society to ensure that global agendas truly benefit everyone.
Looking ahead, we hope to see more such dialogues and, more importantly, concrete actions that transform the Pact for the Future from a vision into reality.
Celebrity Media AI Academy Editor’s Note: The Paris Artificial Intelligence Action Summit took place at the Grand Palais in Paris from February 10 to 11, 2025, bringing together leaders from nearly 100 countries in politics, business, and academia to discuss the future development and global governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Co-hosted by France and India, the summit emphasized the importance of international cooperation. However, the United States and the United Kingdom refused to sign the declaration on "inclusive and sustainable" AI, highlighting differences among nations in AI governance.
The summit showcased global cooperation and competition in the field of AI. While nations are advancing AI development, they are also seeking to balance innovation with regulation. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized: “This summit is about action, and action is exactly what we need now. It is time to set a vision, to define how we want AI to guide society and human progress. Then, we must take action to accelerate Europe's advancement in AI.”
Presidents, Your Highnesses, Prime Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen:
This is the third AI summit in just over a year. In this short time, three generations of more powerful AI models have emerged. Some predict that within a year, AI models will approach human reasoning capabilities.
Previous summits focused on the foundational infrastructure for AI safety, and we have reached a consensus: AI should be safe, uphold our values, and benefit humanity.
However, this summit focuses on action, and action is exactly what we need now. It is time to set a vision, to define how we want AI to guide society and human progress. Then, we must take action to accelerate Europe's advancement in AI. This is exactly what I want to discuss today: Europe’s unique position in the global AI race.
Europe’s AI Vision
We want Europe to be the leading AI continent globally, meaning AI should be integrated into our daily lives. As we all know, AI can help enhance competitiveness, ensure security, improve public health, and democratize access to knowledge and information.
These are the achievements that you—entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, and business leaders—are showcasing in Paris and the transformations you drive daily. These achievements represent the AI continent we aspire to become.
However, I often hear people say that Europe is lagging behind in the AI race, that the US and China have taken the lead. I disagree because the AI race is far from over. In fact, we are still in the early stages, frontier technologies are constantly evolving, and global leadership is still up for grabs.
Moreover, there is still tremendous potential in the broad application of AI. AI is just beginning to enter key industries and support solutions to the major challenges of our time. This is where Europe should focus: applying AI in industry-specific areas to enhance productivity and benefit people. This is where Europe can truly lead in the AI race.
Europe’s Unique AI Model
Europe has everything it takes to win in the AI race. However, we need a unique European AI development model.
I often hear the argument that we should copy other countries’ approaches and catch up with their advantages. But I believe we should focus on our strengths and build our own European advantages.
Europe's strength lies in our science and technology; we have long contributed scientific and technological advancements to the world. As this summit demonstrates, Europe has developed a unique AI style—one that fosters innovation and technological adaptation and is accelerating progress.
The Three Key Features of European AI
First, European AI focuses on AI applications in complex domains, leveraging our industrial and manufacturing data along with specialized expertise.
Second, European AI is collaborative. It brings together talent from different countries, industries, and backgrounds. This collaborative spirit aligns with our scientific cooperation model, which has led to countless breakthroughs and cultivated a vast talent pool. Consider the "Horizon Europe" program—it has become the backbone of European scientific research.
Third, European AI embraces open-source technology. Open-source AI can spread more quickly while coexisting with proprietary systems. Because of this, Europe’s AI startup ecosystem is thriving, with the number of unicorn companies increasing tenfold in just a few years.
This European-style open innovation is yielding results, but now it needs a greater push. That is why this AI Action Summit is crucial: we must take steps to accelerate innovation.
Promoting AI Innovation: Europe's Action Plan
First, we want to accelerate AI innovation. Europe has some of the world’s fastest public supercomputers. We are making these computing resources available to the best startups and scientists so they can develop the AI we need. They can test and train models on our supercomputers.
In just a few months, we have established 12 AI factories and invested 10 billion euros. This is not just a promise; it is an ongoing reality. This is the world’s largest public investment in AI, which will stimulate over ten times as much private investment.
We aim to provide every company—not just large enterprises—with the computing resources they need. We want AI developers to compete based on innovation, not just access to chips or financial strength.
AI Requires Both Competition and Cooperation
AI needs not only competition but also cooperation, as well as public trust and security safeguards. This is the goal of the AI Act: to establish a unified set of AI safety rules across the EU, benefiting 450 million people rather than having 27 countries set their own regulations.
Celebrity Media Commentator: On February 5, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled "Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports," aimed at prohibiting transgender women (individuals assigned male at birth who identify as female) from participating in women's sports competitions. This is a measure to "truly achieve" gender equality, meaning not only recognizing equality between men and women in legal terms but also ensuring fairness and justice in social practice, aligning with the natural order and moral ethics of human society, and preventing certain extreme policies from harming specific groups.
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On February 6, 2025, at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., President Trump announced that he would sign an executive order to establish the "White House Faith Office" and instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi to lead a special task force dedicated to investigating and eliminating "anti-Christian bias" within the federal government.
In his speech, Trump emphasized the importance of religious faith in the United States and called for faith to return to public life. He stated: “Since the early days of our Republic, faith in God has been the ultimate source of strength in our nation’s heart. We must bring faith back.”
Trump explicitly stated that he would take action to strengthen religious freedom and eliminate potential anti-Christian bias within the government. This demonstrates respect for Christian faith and a recognition of gender based on natural science, which is crucial for ensuring gender equality, protecting women's rights, and maintaining the authenticity of biological sex.
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Did Trump's Executive Order Truly Achieve Gender Equality?
When evaluating whether Trump’s policies have "truly achieved" gender equality, we need to clarify that "true achievement" does not mean eliminating gender differences but ensuring both men’s and women’s rights while maintaining the natural order created by God.
From a Christian perspective, Trump's executive order aligns with the biblical view of gender by upholding biological sex, protecting women's rights, and safeguarding religious freedom. Compared to many contemporary gender policies, Trump's policy is arguably closer to the true realization of gender equality.
Of course, in a secular society, different groups may have different definitions of "gender equality." However, from a biblical and Christian faith perspective, true gender equality should not come at the cost of denying biological sex or distorting God's creation. Instead, it should be built on mutual respect between men and women, where each fulfills their respective roles to create a just and harmonious society. In this sense, President Trump’s executive order undeniably took a solid step toward achieving "true gender equality."
Mr. Maher emphasized: “We all wish to thrive on a planet of peace, dignity, equality, and health. I believe that is the true beauty of the Expo, not the buildings, but the people.”
