Remarks by H.E. Annalena Baerbock

President of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

at the International Day of Vesak

Tuesday, 12 May 2026

ECOSOC Chamber, United Nations

[As Delivered by CDC, Ms. Sofia Borges]

Excellencies,

Distinguished delegates,

Ladies and gentlemen,

 

On behalf of the President of the General Assembly, I convey warm greetings to Buddhists around the world on today¡¯s International Day of Vesak, a moment to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Lord Buddha.

 

But, it is also an opportunity to reflect on how his teachings speak to the realities of our world today.

 

At a time of deep uncertainty and division, the Buddha¡¯s wisdom continues to resonate across cultures, religions, and societies.

 

More than two and a half thousand years later, , his teachings of non-violence, loving kindness (maitray), compassion (°ì²¹°ù³Ü?¨¡), and mindfulness (sati), remain profoundly relevant.

 

They offer not only moral guidance, but practical tools for navigating conflict, fostering understanding, and building trust.

 

In many ways, the teachings of the Buddha also echo the founding ideals of the United Nations¡ªto choose dialogue over discord, cooperation over conflict, and understanding over hatred.

 

His vision of peace extends beyond the mere absence of conflict¡­

 

It calls for social justice, empathy, and respect for the dignity of every person¡ªvalues that underpin the three pillars of this Organization.

 

His teaching of the Middle Path¡ªrejecting extremes in favor of balance¡ªoffers a powerful lesson for our work today.

 

In a world often defined by polarization, it reminds us of the importance of restraint, compromise, and common ground in advancing shared solutions, from sustainable development to climate action.

 

Above all, the Buddha¡¯s teachings reflect a deep understanding of human interconnectedness¡ªthat actions in one part of the world reverberate globally.

 

On today¡¯s Vesak day, let us carry forward these values¡ªnot only as enduring spiritual ideals, but also as practical principles to guide our work as we strive to build a better future for all, together.

 

I thank you.

 

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The General Assembly, by its? of 1999, recognized internationally the Day of Vesak to acknowledge the contribution that Buddhism, one of the oldest religions in the world, has made for over two and a half millennia and continues to make to the spirituality of humanity. More Here.