“A new world order is being born plus… the moment of delivery is actually the most harmful. So , will we now have a more divided, less prosperous and less peaceful world?
“Or instead, can we strengthen multilateralism and the UN to deal with the issues of the future, to uphold and to strengthen the particular rules-based international program, and to jointly harness the opportunities provided by new technologies – including digital technology, synthetic biology and customised healthcare, as well as renewable energy?
“If we can do this, we are able to then create a new era of serenity and prosperity for everyone. ”
He or she highlighted three locations where there is an urgent have to build resilience.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND FOOD INSECURITY
One is climate alter, which remains “the most pressing challenge confronting humanity today”, said Dr Balakrishnan.
“We require a sustained and devoted global response. Continuing commitment by most of countries to the Paris, france Agreement and the Glasgow Climate Pact – that’s absolutely critical. We also need to step-up cooperation in the transition to net zero. ”
This will require considerable economic restructuring, technological innovations, investments and behavioural changes, with the UN-led multilateral system type in pulling everyone jointly to move in the same direction without leaving behind any behind, he said.
This individual highlighted Singapore’s ways to raise climate purpose to achieve net-zero emissions “by or about mid-century” and steadily raise carbon taxes, which were announced at Spending budget 2022 .
A related problem is food safety, the threat to which has been exacerbated by climate change, the pandemic and the battle in Ukraine, he said. The minister cited an UN report stating that 828 million people were affected by hunger last year – 46 mil more than in 2020 and 150 mil more than in 2019.
“We should reverse this unfavorable trend. First, we have to ensure that food supply chains remain open plus operate smoothly.
“Second, we must pursue innovation and power technology to adapt to new challenges. For instance , working together to develop climate-resilient food systems, whilst developing the necessary safety measures for food protection. ”