NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that the accelerating increase in sea levels poses escalating dangers for coastal populations and economies across the globe. Speaking at a high-level gathering of the UN General Assembly in New York on September 24, Guterres stated that approximately 770 million individuals live less than five metres above the high-tide line. The global average sea level rose by 5.9 millimetres in 2024, marking the highest annual increase ever recorded. The session concentrated on the threats faced by low-lying nations, urban coastal centers, and vulnerable communities.
The World Meteorological Organization has documented a significant acceleration in the worldwide rate of sea-level rise during the satellite era. The annual increase grew from 2.1 millimetres in 1993-2002 to 4.7 millimetres in 2015-2024. WMO data reveal that 2024 registered the highest global mean sea level in the satellite record. Ocean warming causes seawater expansion, while melting glaciers and ice sheets add additional water to the oceans. These combined processes heighten the risk of coastal flooding, erosion, and saltwater intrusion.
Projections from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change indicate further rises across all assessed emissions scenarios this century. Under a very low emissions pathway, the global mean sea level could increase by 0.28 to 0.55 metres by 2100, whereas under a very high emissions scenario, the expected range is 0.63 to 1.01 metres. These estimates are based on the 1995-2014 average as a baseline. Guterres urged governments to reduce emissions and simultaneously bolster measures that shield communities from climate-related impacts.
Global acceleration in sea-level rise discussed
A political declaration on sea-level rise was adopted by consensus during the September 24 session of the General Assembly. The declaration covers areas including science, funding, resilience, international cooperation, and legal issues associated with rising seas. It advocates for enhanced early-warning systems and more predictable financial support for vulnerable nations. During the meeting, General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman highlighted the swift pace of global sea-level rise, noting that ports facilitate over 80% of international merchandise trade, connecting coastal risks to worldwide supply chains.
Special focus was placed on small island developing states and low-lying coastal zones, which face threats to homes, roads, power grids, farmland, and freshwater resources, along with increased pressure on coastal ecosystems. The declaration also underscores risks to livelihoods, cultural heritage, and communities repeatedly affected by coastal flooding. Discussions centered on international cooperation as nations prepare to confront the physical and legal challenges stemming from evolving coastlines. This session followed a 2024 decision by the General Assembly to intensify global efforts on addressing sea-level rise.
UN’s resolution emphasizes resilience and climate mitigation
Guterres called for action across three main areas: lowering emissions, safeguarding communities, and closing legal gaps caused by rising seas. He also pushed for quicker expansion of renewable energy sources and stronger energy-efficiency initiatives as part of global efforts to reduce emissions. Adaptation strategies recommended include resilient infrastructure, reliable warning systems, and aid for communities increasingly exposed to coastal hazards. The United Nations recognizes sea-level rise as a significant obstacle to development, food security, and economic stability. Impacts on coastal areas can also disrupt transportation networks and international trade routes.
Scientific evaluations suggest that sea levels will keep rising throughout the 21st century as oceans warm and land-based ice melts. The IPCC notes that sea-level rise will persist for centuries or even millennia because of the slow response of oceans and ice sheets to warming. The WMO also warns that the effects of ocean warming and sea-level rise will be felt for hundreds of years. The new UN declaration provides a unified framework addressing resilience, finance, science, and international law. Its adoption elevates sea-level rise as a key issue during the UN General Assembly’s high-level meetings in 2026.