President Barack Obama spoke before the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, pushing international leaders to work together to solve global problems.
"No longer do we have the luxury of indulging our differences to the exclusion of the work that we must do together. The time has come for the world to move in a new direction," the president said.
While accepting America's failures, he noted several areas where the United States has moved in new directions such as outlawing torture and refocusing on nuclear arms control.
President Obama also highlighted what he called four pillars essential to the future of the planet: nuclear disarmament, the promotion of peace, preservation of the planet and a healthy global economy.
In this video, NewsHour correspondent Margaret Warner reports from the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York City.
Quotes
"Make no mistake: This cannot solely be America's endeavor. Those who used to chastise America for acting alone in the world cannot now stand by and wait for America to solve the world's problems alone. " - President Barack Obama
"The United States does Israel no favors when we fail to couple an unwavering commitment to its security with an insistence that Israel respect the legitimate claims and rights of the Palestinians. And nations within this body do the Palestinians no favors when they choose vitriolic attacks against Israel over a constructive willingness to recognize Israel's legitimacy and its right to exist in peace and security."
"When he finished, there was sustained applause, not a standing ovation, but very vigorous and sustained applause." - Margaret Warner
Warm Up Questions
1. How does the United States work with other countries?
2. Why is it important for world leaders to come together and talk about global problems?
3. What are some global problems that require countries to cooperate on a solution?
4. What is the United Nations?
Discussion Questions
1. What is your reaction to the president's speech? What did you think of his message of global cooperation?
2. Why might some critics say the United Nations is an outmoded institution that has no real power?
3. Do you believe that America should care or make decisions based on what other nations think? Why or why not?
Additional Resources
