Pavel praises UN’s legacy, calls for reform of Security Council

The United Nations has changed countless lives and laid the foundation for a better, more humane world, Czech President Petr Pavel told the UN General Assembly in New York. Speaking on the organization’s 80th anniversary, he praised its role in preventing another global conflict, ending colonialism, and fighting hunger and poverty. While acknowledging its achievements, Pavel criticized the Security Council for failing to act against Russia’s “ruthless war” on Ukraine. He urged comprehensive reform to make it more effective, inclusive, and accountable. Czechia is seeking a non-permanent seat on the Council for 2032–33.