Lula Addresses 80th UN General Assembly, Emphasizing Sovereignty and Condemning Unilateral Measures

Brazilian President Opens 80th UN General Assembly with Strong Defense of Sovereignty

New York, USA – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva delivered the opening address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly's high-level General Debate on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. In a speech that touched upon a wide array of global challenges, President Lula emphasized Brazil's unwavering commitment to its sovereignty and democratic institutions, while also issuing a stern condemnation of unilateral measures impacting international relations and national economies.

Democracy and the Rule of Law

President Lula highlighted Brazil's recent experience in defending its democracy, citing the conviction of former President Jair Bolsonaro for attempting a coup. He noted that this marked the first time in 525 years of Brazilian history that a former head of state was held accountable for attacking the democratic rule of law, undergoing a thorough process with full rights of defense. Lula declared that this sent a clear message to 'aspiring autocrats' and their supporters: 'Our democracy and our sovereignty are non-negotiable.' He asserted that 'solid democracies go beyond the electoral ritual' and require the reduction of inequalities and the guarantee of basic rights.

Critique of Unilateralism and Call for Multilateral Reform

A significant portion of President Lula's speech was dedicated to criticizing 'unilateral and arbitrary measures' against national institutions and economies, which he stated were becoming the rule and destabilizing the global economic order. He indirectly referenced the United States' imposition of tariffs and sanctions on Brazil in connection with the legal proceedings against Bolsonaro. Lula stressed that 'multilateralism is at a new crossroads' and that the authority of the United Nations is 'in check.' He advocated for reforms within the UN, including an enlarged Security Council, and called for a refoundation of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to counter such measures.

Addressing Pressing Global Issues

President Lula also addressed several critical international concerns:

• Gaza Conflict: He unequivocally labeled the situation in Gaza a 'genocide,' stating that 'nothing absolutely nothing justifies the ongoing genocide in Gaza.' He warned that the 'Palestinian people are at risk of disappearing' and emphasized the necessity of an independent state.
• Climate Action: Reaffirming Brazil's commitment to environmental protection, Lula announced a proposed 'Tropical Forests Forever Fund' and called for an energy transition that avoids the 'predatory logic' of past centuries.
• Poverty and Inequality: He highlighted poverty as an enemy of democracy, celebrated Brazil's removal from the UN hunger map, and urged the international community to revise priorities by reducing military spending, increasing development aid, and implementing global tax standards for the super-rich.
• Digital Governance: Lula warned against the internet becoming a 'land of lawlessness,' advocating for regulation to combat intolerance, misinformation, and crimes online.
• Regional Stability: He underscored Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace, advocating for dialogue in Venezuela, a violence-free future for Haiti, and the removal of Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism.

Lula's address, his 11th at the UN General Assembly, set a firm tone for the week's discussions, advocating for a more equitable and democratic international order.