The World Meteorological Organization’s State of the Global Climate Update 2025 confirms what scientists have feared: the past eleven years are the warmest ever recorded, with 2025 likely ranking second or third hottest. From record-low polar ice to escalating ocean heat and widespread climate shocks, the report paints a stark picture — but also highlights growing global capacity for early warning and climate services. Released ahead of COP30 in Belém, Brazil, this evidence-based update anchors negotiations in science and calls for urgent, collective action to keep the 1.5°C goal within reach.
Press Conference on the key moments and commitments from the Second World Social Summit for Development.
Speakers:
Annalena Baerbock, President of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly
Amina J. Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General
H.E. Sheikha Alya bin Saif Al Thani, Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar
Moderated by: Martin Samaan, Spokesperson for the Second World Summit for Social Development, UN Department of Global Communications
Briefing the Council via video teleconference, the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, Guang Cong said, “the bilateral relationship between Sudan and South Sudan remains deeply affected by the war that started in April 2023” between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
In particular, Cong said, “the conflict in Sudan continues to impact the security situation in South Sudan with cross-border movements of armed groups on both sides, increasing the insecurity in and around the border area.”
He told the Council that in this context, “South Sudan’s oil flow and exports through Sudan have experienced significant disruptions, resulting in a 24.5 percent contraction of its economy.”
Cong noted that “following increased bilateral engagement and new arrangements to improve security along the pipeline route and other installations, oil production and transportation resumed early this year.”
However, subsequent attacks by the RSF on oil installations in Port Sudan on 5-6 May, and another attack on 26
August on oil facilities in Heglig, near the Sudan – South Sudan border, resulted in oil spills, environmental damage and led to an emergency shutdown of operations.
Sudan’s Ambassador Ammar Mohammed Mahmoud Mohammed expressed “Sudan’s commitment to work closely with the government of South Sudan to enhance the role of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism and the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee,” expressing hope that both countries can activate bilateral mechanisms provided for existing agreements.
Mohammed said, “Sudan firmly believes that a sustainable solution to the Abyei question can only be achieved through sincere dialog and cooperation between the two nations, away from any escalation, in a way to bring lasting peace to the region.”
South Sudan’s Ambassador Sabino Edward Nyawella Amaikwey for his part said, “South Sudan has no intention to hinder or intervene in UNISFA’s mandate. The presence of South Sudan Defence Forces (SSPDF) in South Sudan’s territories is meant to protect civilians and discourage enterprise rivalry among communities.”
The European Union goes to COP30 Belém, Brazil, ready to deliver new, ambitious climate goals and a clear mission: build bridges, meet the Paris Agreement objectives, and make the clean transition work for everyone worldwide.
Europe is leading the way towards a clean, fair, and resilient world, cutting greenhouse-gas emissions by up to 72% by 2035 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
At COP30 Belém, the EU will work with partners across the globe to ensure the clean transition benefits all nations and that the Paris Agreement goals are fulfilled.
Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)
Youth Parliament sits today in the House of Commons. 🙋
Watch UK Youth Parliament with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/W6bETSIAFGA?feature=share
Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) from across the UK, Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies will be debating the issues that matter to them. 🗣️
It’s a unique opportunity for young people to represent their communities and speak directly from the benches of the Commons. 💬
Learn more about Youth Parliament: https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-10138/
Cyberbullying affects one in ten young people, and the threat is growing. But there are ways to fight back. UNICEF Youth Advocate Abril Perazzini knows the problem because she experienced it—and she’s taking action to advance digital rights. Joanna Herat, a Senior Programme Specialist at UNESCO, explains how governments and schools can make the world online safer for students. As the world marks the International Day against Violence and Bullying at School, UNESCO is focusing on safety in the digital era.
