The President's UN Remarks, Ambassador Mike Waltz, and the UN80 Initiative

On Sept. 23, President Donald Trump addressed the United Nations General Assembly, highlighting U.S. leadership on global security and international policy. His speech focused on military efforts against criminal networks in Latin America, enforcement of nuclear and biological weapons treaties, and migration policies, urging stricter measures by member states. President Trump also questioned the U.N.'s effectiveness in resolving international conflicts, referenced operational challenges, and outlined U.S. domestic and foreign policy accomplishments, including economic growth and peace initiatives.

Earlier, Mike Waltz was sworn in as the 32nd U.S. ambassador to the U.N. on Sept. 20. Waltz is a retired Green Beret, former member of Congress, and former national security advisor to Trump. He has served multiple combat tours, earned four Bronze Stars, and founded a small business that grew to over 400 employees. Waltz's career spans military, policy, and private-sector leadership, and he is the author of two books benefiting veterans charities. As U.N. ambassador, Waltz will represent U.S. interests during ongoing discussions and reform efforts at the U.N.

In September, SHRM submitted a letter to Congress underscoring the importance of multilateralism and the need to confirm a U.S. ambassador to the U.N. SHRM emphasized that U.S. leadership at the U.N. is vital to ensuring the future of work is built on peace, prosperity, and opportunity for all.