In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world once again faces a test of solidarity and cooperation in responding to a public health challenge as the Ebola outbreak grows increasingly serious.

The world is witnessing an unprecedented surge in conflicts and violence since the end of the second World War, with severe repercussions for the lives of millions and the eruption of numerous humanitarian crises.

“Let's put peace at the heart of our words and actions”, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said his New Year video message with the hope that the world will narrow disagreements to overcome multi-dimensional challenges in the old year and move forward bright future of peace and sustainable development.