NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that the increasing pace of sea-level rise poses escalating dangers for coastal populations and economies globally. Speaking at a high-level session of the UN General Assembly in New York on September 24, Guterres revealed that approximately 770 million individuals reside less than five metres above the high-tide line. The global average sea level surged by 5.9 millimetres in 2024, marking the highest yearly increase ever recorded. The session concentrated on the threats confronting low-lying nations, urban coastal areas, and vulnerable communities.
The World Meteorological Organization reports a notable acceleration in worldwide sea-level rise during the satellite era. The annual increase has grown from 2.1 millimetres in 1993-2002 to 4.7 millimetres in 2015-2024. WMO data indicate that 2024 experienced the highest measured global mean sea level in the satellite record. Rising ocean temperatures cause seawater expansion, while melting glaciers and ice sheets contribute additional water to the oceans. These combined processes heighten the risk of coastal flooding, erosion, and saltwater intrusion.
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, further increases are projected across all assessed emission scenarios this century. Under a very low emissions pathway, the global mean sea level could rise between 0.28 and 0.55 metres by 2100. Conversely, a very high emissions pathway suggests a probable range of 0.63 to 1.01 metres. These projections are based on the 1995-2014 average as the reference period. Guterres called on governments to reduce emissions and expand efforts to shield communities from climate-related impacts.
Worldwide acceleration of sea-level rise
During the September 24 gathering, the General Assembly unanimously approved a political declaration on sea-level rise. This document addresses scientific understanding, funding, resilience, international collaboration, and legal concerns associated with rising seas. It emphasizes the need for improved early-warning systems and more reliable financing for nations most at risk. General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman underscored the rapid increase in global sea levels and highlighted that ports facilitate over 80% of worldwide merchandise trade, linking coastal dangers to global supply chains.
Special attention was given to small island developing states and low-lying coastal zones during the UN discussions. Rising waters threaten homes, infrastructure, power grids, agricultural land, and freshwater supplies, while also putting pressure on coastal ecosystems. The declaration also considers risks to livelihoods, cultural heritage, and communities subjected to recurrent flooding. Governments debated international cooperation as they address the physical and legal impacts of changing coastlines. This meeting followed a 2024 General Assembly decision aimed at strengthening global action on sea-level rise.
UN focus on resilience and climate mitigation measures
Guterres urged action in three main areas: reducing emissions, safeguarding communities, and filling legal gaps created by sea-level rise. He emphasized the importance of accelerating renewable energy deployment and enhancing energy efficiency as crucial steps for global emission reduction. Adaptation strategies include building resilient infrastructure, deploying effective early-warning systems, and supporting vulnerable communities facing increased coastal hazards. The United Nations has recognized sea-level rise as a major obstacle to development, food security, and economic stability. Coastal impacts also threaten transport networks and international trade flows.
Scientific evaluations project ongoing sea-level increases throughout the 21st century as ocean temperatures continue rising and land-based ice melts. The IPCC states that sea levels will persist in rising for centuries to millennia, owing to the slow response of oceans and ice sheets to warming. The WMO further warns that the effects of ocean warming and sea-level rise will endure for hundreds of years. The new UN declaration offers a unified framework covering resilience, financial support, scientific research, and legal aspects. Its adoption elevates sea-level rise as a key issue in the climate agenda during the UN General Assembly’s high-level meetings in 2026.