United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the world is facing a moment of profound danger and choice, saying global instability, violence and climate breakdown are pushing humanity to a critical crossroads.

Guterres issued the warning in a New Year’s video message released on Monday, in which he described a global landscape increasingly defined by fear and uncertainty.

He said, “As we enter the new year, the world stands at a crossroads. Chaos and uncertainty surround us.”

The UN chief pointed to deepening global fractures, highlighting what he described as a retreat from shared values.

“Division. Violence. Climate breakdown. And systemic violations of international law,” Guterres said, adding that these trends reflect “A retreat from the very principles that bind us together as a human family.”

He said public trust in leadership is weakening as crises continue to mount across the globe.

“People everywhere are asking: Are leaders even listening? Are they ready to act?” he said.

Guterres also drew attention to what he described as misplaced global priorities, citing a sharp rise in military spending worldwide.

“As we turn the page on a turbulent year, one fact speaks louder than words: Global military spending has soared to 2.7 trillion dollars, growing by almost 10 per cent,” he stated.

He contrasted the figure with funding for development efforts.

“That is thirteen times more than all development aid, equivalent to the entire Gross Domestic Product of Africa,” he said, noting that the increase comes “All, while conflict rages at levels unseen since World War II.”

Calling for a change in direction, the Secretary-General urged governments to rethink their spending choices.

“On this new year, let’s resolve to get our priorities straight.

“A safer world begins by investing more in fighting poverty and less in fighting wars. Peace must prevail,” he said.

Guterres insisted that global challenges are solvable if leaders demonstrate the political will to act.

“It’s clear the world has the resources to lift lives, heal the planet, and secure a future of peace and justice.”

Looking ahead to the coming year, he issued a direct appeal to world leaders.

“In 2026, I call on leaders everywhere: Get serious. Choose people and planet over pain,” he noted.

He also urged individuals to take responsibility for shaping the future.

“And I urge everyone who hears this message: Play your part, Our future depends on our collective courage to act.”

Guterres concluded his address with a call for unity.

He concluded, “This new year, let’s rise together: For justice. For humanity. For peace.”

The message comes amid escalating global tensions, with wars and armed conflicts ongoing across parts of Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia, alongside rising displacement, humanitarian crises and the growing impacts of climate change and economic instability.