This year, the kick-off of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is a bigger deal than normal. That's because this year more heads of state and government than ever will be coming together for the 70th anniversary of the U.N.'s founding. Even leaders who usually stay away from the UNGA — like Russian president Vladimir Putin and Chinese president Xi Jinping — are scheduled to make appearances.
While the UNGA meets all year round, Monday will see the gathered world leaders convene for the start of what's called the General Debate, which launches each session.
The General Debate this session is likely going to be focused on two things: the newly adopted Sustainable Development Goals, a set of principles meant to guide millions out of poverty while also protecting the planet; and Syria — both the immediate security crisis, including ISIS, and the refugee crisis that has occurred as a result.
All 193 members of the U.N. are represented in the UNGA, and in time all of them will get the chance to speak.
The order of the speakers is here.