We are delighted to be hosting the new UN Secretary General for his first major UK speech on Wednesday, 10th May 2017.
Methodist Central Hall Westminster was the venue for the first meeting of the UN General Assembly in 1946 and we are proud of our strong association with the UNA-UK. Revd Dr Martyn Atkins, Superintendent Minister and Team Leader at Methodist Central Hall said,
“Methodist Central Hall Westminster is delighted to host a visit of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres which continues a long association with the UN going back to the inaugural meeting of the General Assembly in 1946. This is a precarious time for the peoples of the earth and the UN has a critical role today. We support the emphases of the Secretary-General on human dignity and actively seeking peace in contexts of conflict, and will hold his visit – and the work and role of the United Nations Association itself – in our prayers.”
Mr Guterres took office on 1 January 2017, following the most transparent selection process in UN history, which UNA-UK campaigned to achieve. Prior to his appointment, he served as UN High Commissioner for Refugees (2005–2015), earning a reputation for speaking truth to power, and as Prime Minister of Portugal (1995–2002), during which time he was heavily involved in the international effort to resolve the crisis in East Timor.
He takes up the UN’s reins at a time of growing global instability, when many have lost confidence in political leadership and institutions. Having witnessed firsthand the suffering in refugee camps and war zones, he has said he will make human dignity the core of his work and strive to serve as a peace broker, a bridge-builder and a promoter of reform and innovation.
You can book tickets for the event here & follow the event on Social Media via #SGLondon
Photo credit, UN Photos.
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