What's on the Agenda for the U.N. General Assembly?

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) convenes this month to discuss a wide range of international issues. The policy discussions that take place during this session are sure to shape the future of global cooperation.

CFR Education’s expert-informed resources will help your students understand the importance of this type of global convening, the inner workings of UNGA, and the topics it will cover.

International Cooperation 

To avoid repeating the major crises of the first half of the 20th century, world leaders created a series of international organizations and agreements to promote global cooperation.

One of these international organizations is the United Nations. Composed of 193 nations, the U.N. aims to promote international peace and stability, human rights and economic development.

High School Educator Tip: Need a refresher on major international organizations? This resource breaks down six of the most prominent ones.

What Is the U.N. General Assembly? 

As the main policy-making organ of the U.N., the General Assembly's role is to discuss, debate, and make recommendations on international peace and security.

Other key functions include: 

• Electing the non-permanent members of the U.N. Security Council;
• Appointing the Secretary-General; and
• Approving the budget for the United Nations. 

Pick a Position on U.N. Security Council Reform

Should the United States stand at the forefront of reform or resist modification and recommend maintaining the status quo? It is up to your class to decide. Try the mini-simulation.

2023 UNGA Agenda

With a goal of rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity, the 193 member states of the United Nations have a lot to tackle this year. Use the below resources to explain the background on some of the main items on the agenda.

Promotion of sustained economic growth and sustainable development 

• A timeline of the past 50 years of global development; 
• Explainer on economic inequality;
• Charts that detail the history of U.S. foreign aid; and
• Comparison of global health then and now.

Sustainable Development Goals Summit

During UNGA, there will be a summit to discuss the mid-point implementation of the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) for 2030. This overview breaks it down for you. Learn about SDGs.

Maintenance of international peace and security

• Introduction to peacekeeping as a tool of foreign policy;
• A timeline of the responsibility to protect doctrine; and
• Overview of how armed force plays a role in foreign policy.

Promotion of justice and international law

• A deep dive into international agreements and courts

A more equitable renewable-energy based, climate-resilient global economy

• Explainer on how governments combat climate change;
• Interactive map showing how countries adapt to a changing climate; and
• Overview of how artificial intelligence can influence our climate.

Higher Education Tip: This discussion guide can help your students construct their own arguments about strategies for international development and the opportunities and challenges associated with economic growth.