What’s the Point of the United Nations? | Michaela Friberg-Storey | TEDxChiangMai

Michaela challenges the belief that the UN is outdated or irrelevant. She shows how UN safety standards shape everyday life — from milk and air travel to mobile networks, vaccines, and disaster response. She argues that despite its imperfections, a reformed and strengthened UN is indispensable for global cooperation, stability, and protecting future generations. Key message: The UN is imperfect but indispensable — helping us build the future our children deserve. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Michaela Friberg-Storey of Sweden as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Thailand, with the host Government’s approval, starting on 28 September 2024. Ms. Friberg-Storey brings over 25 years of expertise in international humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding. Prior, she served as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Before joining the UN, Ms. Friberg-Storey held senior management positions within the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and she served as Senior Advisor at the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She holds a postgraduate degree in Humanitarian Assistance from Uppsala University and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Stockholm University. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx