Estonian President at UN: The old order is gone, the new one hasn't emerged yet

Estonian President Alar Karis, addressing the UN General Assembly's High-Level Week in New York, said the world stands at a turning point: the existing international order no longer fully works, yet a replacement has not yet taken shape. This marks his final such visit as president, and he noted that turnout at the assembly seemed larger this time, possibly reflecting concern about the UN's potential weakening.

In his remarks, the president stressed the need to defend the UN Charter and international law. He pointed out that most UN member states are small countries, and that their combined strength can be considerable when they act together. Karis acknowledged that small states, including Estonia, are especially sensitive to global upheavals, but said experience shows they can weather such storms. He described the current uncertainty as unsettling, but said taking action rather than standing aside is what helps countries get through it.

Relations with the United States

Discussing ties with the United States, having dealt with two different administrations during his term, Karis said that regardless of who holds the presidency, the US remains an important partner for Estonia. He argued that Europe and America cannot manage well without each other at a time when other major powers are rising. The president also welcomed confirmation from the US that its military presence in the Baltic states will continue, adding that the government would provide more detailed information on its scale.

Estonian community in the US

Meeting with the Estonian community in New York, the president also addressed the diaspora's role — an estimated 30,000 people of Estonian descent live in the United States. He noted that the postwar generation who emigrated there is gradually passing away, while newer generations continue to arrive to study or work. He said it remains important to remind them to keep Estonian language and culture alive, since modern technology, which allows easy contact with relatives back home, can make sustaining the community feel less urgent.