Every September, world leaders gather at the UN headquarters in New York to debate and pass resolutions on major global issues. The 80th session of the General Assembly began on Sept. 9, with the agenda adopted and committees organized in preparation for the high-level General Debate starting on Wednesday.
High-Level Debate
The main debate takes place in morning and afternoon sessions, with more than 150 heads of state and government delivering speeches. Brazil traditionally opens the debate, followed by the United States. This year’s dynamic is notable due to the tense relationship between Presidents Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil and Donald Trump of the U.S.
Member Participation and Speaking Order
The speaking order for other member states is determined by level of representation, expressed preferences, and geographic balance. The Holy See, Palestine, and the European Union also participate according to their representation. Sessions are livestreamed and continue until all scheduled speakers have spoken, with no sessions on Sunday.
UN Headquarters
The UNGA is held at the UN headquarters along the East River in Manhattan. The complex includes the Secretariat, the General Assembly Hall, the Conference Building, the Dag Hammarskjöld Library, and outdoor spaces with member-state artwork. Since 1952, nearly all sessions have been held in New York, with exceptions like 1988 and the virtual session in 2020 due to COVID-19.
Key Agenda Items
This year’s theme is “Better Together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights.” Key topics include Palestine, climate change, artificial intelligence, global food crises, and international conflicts. Several countries recently announced recognition of Palestine as a state, though efforts to grant full UN membership remain blocked by the United States.
UN Membership
The UN currently has 193 members and two observers: Palestine and the Holy See. To become a full member, a country must accept the UN Charter, be recommended by the Security Council, and approved by a two-thirds majority in the General Assembly. Full membership grants voting rights and full participation in UN programs and decisions.
U.S. Veto on Palestinian Membership
The United States has repeatedly blocked full membership for Palestine through vetoes in the Security Council and General Assembly. Since 2012, Palestine has been a non-member observer state, allowing it to participate in debates but not vote. The U.S. veto has consistently limited measures addressing military actions, settlements, and occupation of Palestinian territories.
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