UN Chief Calls for Fair Clean Energy Transition, Highlights Crises in Gaza and South Sudan

Guterres warns of fossil fuel addiction, urges global platform to coordinate orderly shift to renewables

Feb. 24, 2026 at 8:47am

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UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the creation of a dedicated global platform to coordinate an orderly, affordable and fair transition away from fossil fuels, aligned with the 1.5°C climate goal. He also highlighted the dire conditions faced by families in Gaza during Ramadan and the escalating violence and displacement in South Sudan's Jonglei state.

Why it matters

Guterres' remarks underscore the need for a just and equitable transition to clean energy to address the climate crisis, while also drawing attention to the ongoing humanitarian challenges in Gaza and South Sudan that require urgent action to protect vulnerable populations.

The details

Guterres warned that the world's addiction to fossil fuels remains "one of the greatest threats to global stability and prosperity," and criticized efforts by some fossil fuel interests to slow progress and spread disinformation. He called for the creation of a global platform to coordinate the decline of fossil fuel investments while scaling up clean energy, in order to ensure an orderly, affordable and fair transition. In Gaza, the UN reported that families are marking Ramadan in harsh conditions, with limited access to food, water and essential services. In South Sudan's Jonglei state, the UN documented widespread abuses, including sexual violence against women and girls, as well as the recruitment of adolescents by armed groups, amid persistent insecurity and displacement.

  • On February 19, 2026, UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered remarks calling for a fair clean energy transition.
  • In Gaza, the UN reported on the dire conditions faced by families marking the first day of Ramadan in 2026.
  • From February 12-14, 2026, a multi-agency UN assessment was conducted in South Sudan's Jonglei state.

The players

António Guterres

The Secretary-General of the United Nations, who has urged the creation of a global platform to coordinate a fair transition away from fossil fuels towards clean energy.

Stéphane Dujarric

The UN Spokesman, who reported on the inadequate conditions at the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt.

UNFPA

The UN sexual and reproductive health agency, which warned that disrupted maternity and emergency obstetric services in South Sudan are forcing women to give birth without skilled care, increasing preventable deaths.

WHO

The World Health Organization, which reported that at least 16 health facilities have been attacked or looted in South Sudan since late 2025.

SPLM-IO

The Sudan People's Liberation Movement in Opposition, an armed group involved in clashes with the military in South Sudan's Jonglei state.

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What they’re saying

“Those who lead this transition will lead the global economy of the future.”

— António Guterres, UN Secretary-General

“We face a choice. Design the transition together - or stumble into it through crisis and chaos.”

— António Guterres, UN Secretary-General

What’s next

The UN and its partners are engaging with relevant authorities to ensure safety and dignity for all crossing passengers at the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt.

The takeaway

Guterres' call for a fair and coordinated global transition to clean energy, coupled with the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza and South Sudan, underscores the interconnected challenges the world faces in addressing climate change, conflict, and human rights abuses, requiring a comprehensive and collaborative approach.