The UN, An Organisation Close To Breaking Point?

Ambassadors and international officials at the United Nations can agree on at least two things. One is that the UN needs serious reform to deal with global challenges, from climate change to the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI). The other is that in today’s tense climate its members will find it difficult, perhaps impossible, to agree on even limited reforms. While diplomats are preparing for a leaders-level Summit of the Future in September intended to overhaul the multilateral system, the negotiations may end up emphasising global divisions.

The summit is the brainchild of UN secretary-general António Guterres. The former Portuguese prime minister is often critical of the organisation he now manages. He believes the UN is inefficient and has not kept pace with shifts in science and the global economy; he likes the big questions about humanity’s future and feels that the UN should work on safeguarding the planet for coming generations.

The full article can be read on the Le Monde Diplomatique website.