UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed addressed a massive crowd in New York’s Central Park, emphasizing the importance of hope in today’s challenging world. She urged attendees to channel their energy into action against poverty, environmental degradation, and inequality. Her remarks were part of the Global Citizen Festival, an annual event that brings together advocates for social change.
During her speech, Ms. Mohammed posed a question to the audience, asking if they were ready to take action. This call to arms resonated with the thousands present, highlighting the festival’s mission to combat extreme poverty, which aligns with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations.
The Global Citizen Festival took place against the backdrop of the UN General Assembly’s high-level week, making it a significant event for both advocacy and entertainment. The festival not only entertained but also served as a platform for raising awareness about critical global issues.
This year, the festival announced a remarkable $1 billion in commitments aimed at eradicating extreme poverty and protecting the planet. These pledges reflect a strong alignment with the UN’s goals and demonstrate a collective effort to drive meaningful change.
See also: The 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79)
Inspiring the crowd, Milly, a 24-year-old concertgoer from Australia, expressed her excitement about being part of an event where young people gathered not just for the music but for the purpose of enacting change. Her sentiment captured the spirit of the festival, which blends entertainment with activism.
The festival featured performances from some of the biggest names in music, including Doja Cat and Post Malone, along with surprise appearances from Ed Sheeran and Chris Martin. These performances drew in large crowds and created an electrifying atmosphere, further motivating attendees to engage with the cause.
Since April, Global Citizen has been actively advocating for increased support from G20 countries to the International Development Association (IDA). This World Bank fund is crucial for addressing poverty in 77 of the world’s lowest-income nations, highlighting the urgent need for international cooperation in tackling these challenges.
Denmark made a significant commitment during the festival, pledging $491 million to the IDA. This represents a 40 percent increase over its previous contribution, showcasing the country’s dedication to supporting global poverty alleviation efforts.
On stage, Denmark’s Finance Minister Nicolai Wammen, accompanied by actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Development Programme (UNDP), highlighted this generous pledge. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration between governments and influential figures in driving change.
Overall, the Global Citizen Festival served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to address pressing global issues. Through music, advocacy, and significant financial commitments, the event inspired hope and action among participants, reinforcing the belief that together, meaningful change is possible.
