World leaders have convened in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where critical global issues such as conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, and the future of international cooperation are set to dominate the agenda. The high-level general debate is scheduled from September 22 to 26 and on September 28.
Among the notable attendees, US President Donald Trump is expected to address the assembly, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy planning a meeting with Trump during the session. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, its humanitarian impact, and the broader implications for food and energy security are anticipated to be significant topics of discussion. Russia’s role as a permanent member of the UN Security Council continues to influence the body’s response to the war.
The Middle East remains a focal point, particularly the conflict involving Iran, which affects regional security and international diplomacy. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are both slated to participate in the assembly, underscoring the region’s ongoing tensions.
In addition to geopolitical conflicts, artificial intelligence is a key issue on the agenda. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for international collaboration and the establishment of safeguards as AI technology evolves. The UN has previously set up an advisory body dedicated to AI governance, highlighting the importance of this topic in global discussions.
The United Nations itself is facing scrutiny over its financial pressures and effectiveness in responding to global crises. The United States recently contributed $725 million towards its UN obligations, avoiding the loss of its voting rights in the General Assembly, while also advocating for reforms and budget cuts. As Guterres is expected to leave office at the end of 2026, the leadership transition adds another layer of complexity to the discussions at the assembly.