UN Experts Warn of Crisis as Leaders Meet in New York
Experts describe a UN facing funding gaps and council gridlock. Leaders gather in New York to debate these deep structural issues.
Key points
- Experts say the UN faces a crisis of funding and relevance.
- Security Council vetoes by major powers block key conflict resolutions.
- New mechanisms force permanent members to explain their veto use.
World leaders met in New York for the 81st UN General Assembly. Experts say the body faces an existential crisis. They cite funding gaps and Security Council gridlock as key issues.
The institution struggles with relevance in today's conflicts. Major powers often act alone, bypassing the UN. Member states seek new ways to ensure accountability and voice concerns.
Security Council vetoes block action
Russia has repeatedly vetoed resolutions on Ukraine. Zelenskyy urged leaders to tighten economic measures. He spoke for the fifth time since the invasion began.
The UN labelled actions in Gaza a genocide. Yet it struggled to exercise real agency. Resolutions were vetoed, and relief agencies faced targeting.
Al Jazeera English reported that these conflicts cause humanitarian harm. Food access drops and fuel prices rise. Global inflation is also increasing due to these wars.
New mechanisms try to bypass vetoes
Nations invoke historical procedures to mitigate deadlocks. A 1950 resolution allows the General Assembly to debate vetoed issues. This dates from the Korean War era.
In 2022, a new mechanism was created. It forces P5 members to explain vetoes. They must speak before the General Assembly when using this power.
Leaders value the global platform
Daniel Forti says leaders recognize the UN's value. It serves as a global conversation platform. Even major powers acknowledge its importance.
The assembly is the only forum where all 193 states are equal. It offers a chance for discussion. However, major agreements are unlikely to result.
