Okay, let’s craft a detailed article based on the UN News report headline.
Development: A Shield Against Conflict, Guterres Tells Security Council
In a compelling address to the Security Council on June 19th, 2025, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the critical link between sustainable development and global peace, stating unequivocally that “development is the first line of defence against conflict.” His remarks highlighted the growing recognition within the international community that addressing the root causes of instability, particularly poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity, is paramount to preventing future conflicts and building lasting peace.
Guterres painted a picture of a world where the seeds of conflict are often sown in the fertile ground of unmet needs. When communities are deprived of basic necessities, lack access to education and healthcare, and feel excluded from economic and political processes, they become more vulnerable to recruitment by extremist groups, susceptible to divisive rhetoric, and prone to social unrest.
He argued that focusing solely on reactive measures – peacekeeping operations and humanitarian aid – while important, is insufficient. A truly effective approach requires a proactive commitment to building resilient societies through sustainable development. This means investing in education, creating jobs, empowering women and girls, promoting good governance, and ensuring access to justice for all.
The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a vital roadmap for achieving this vision. He urged member states to recommit to the 2030 Agenda and to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs, particularly in conflict-affected and fragile states. He specifically highlighted the importance of SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).
Furthermore, Guterres stressed the interconnectedness of development, peace, and security. He argued that neglecting development undermines peacebuilding efforts, and conversely, conflict destroys development gains. He called for a more integrated and holistic approach to addressing these challenges, urging the Security Council to consider the development implications of its decisions and to work more closely with development actors.
Several specific examples were cited to illustrate the argument. For instance, investment in vocational training and job creation programs for young people in post-conflict settings has been shown to reduce the risk of re-recruitment into armed groups. Similarly, promoting inclusive governance and participatory decision-making processes can help address grievances and build trust between communities and the state.
Guterres also acknowledged the challenges in financing development in conflict-affected contexts. He called for increased international support for development initiatives in these areas, including through innovative financing mechanisms and partnerships with the private sector. He encouraged developed nations to meet their existing commitments for official development assistance (ODA), to ensure that sufficient resources are available to support development efforts in the world’s most vulnerable countries.
The Secretary-General’s remarks were met with widespread support from members of the Security Council. Many delegations echoed his call for a more integrated approach to peace and security, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict through sustainable development. Several countries announced new commitments to support development initiatives in conflict-affected regions, demonstrating a growing recognition of the crucial role of development in preventing conflict and building lasting peace.
The message was clear: investing in development is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic necessity. By building more resilient and inclusive societies, the world can create a more peaceful and prosperous future for all. The hope is that Guterres’s call to action will lead to a renewed commitment to sustainable development and a more effective approach to preventing and resolving conflict around the globe.
Development is ‘the first line of defence against conflict,’ Guterres tells Security Council
AI has delivered the news.
The answer to the following question is obtained from Google Gemini.
Top Stories published ‘Development is ‘the first line of defence against conflict,’ Guterres tells Security Council’ at 2025-06-19 12:00. Please write a detailed article about this news, including related information, in a gentle tone. Please answer only in English.