The secretary‑general used an address to the Security Council marking the United Nations' 80th anniversary to reiterate his call for reform of the Security Council, saying the body’s legitimacy is fragile and that member states must forge an institution capable of meeting coming challenges.

A UN spokesperson reported that the secretary‑general joined a Security Council session by video link from Hanoi and “reminded council members that the Security Council exists for sincere, hopeful people who for the last eight decades have placed their trust in this institution to save them from the scourge of war.” The spokesperson quoted him saying, in part: “It is our duty to forge a body that can meet the challenges of the next 80 years, one that delivers justice and safety for all.”

Reporters asked how feasible reform is, given that amendments would need the support of permanent members. The UN spokesperson said reforms ultimately require the agreement of member states under the UN Charter and encouraged other member states to press for change so the council can be effective.

The briefing also noted the secretary‑general’s travel schedule: he arrived in Hanoi, met with the Vietnamese president (named in the briefing) and will participate in the signing of the convention against cybercrime and later attend an ASEAN‑UN summit in Kuala Lumpur, the spokesperson said.

Why it matters: Security Council composition and veto arrangements are central to how the UN addresses conflict and international peace and security. Calls for expansion and reform are longstanding and have wide political implications for UN diplomacy and decision‑making.

Looking ahead: The spokesperson said the secretary‑general respects that member states must decide changes under the UN Charter and will continue to press for reforms through diplomatic channels.