Experts warn that the United Nations (UN) is facing crises related to funding, relevance, and gridlock within the Security Council. As world leaders gather in New York for the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), they express concerns about the institution's ability to address major global conflicts.
Daniel Forti, head of UN Affairs at the International Crisis Group, noted that while leaders recognize the UN's importance as a platform for global dialogue, they are aware of its challenges. The UN is currently managing multiple conflicts, including those in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and Myanmar.
In the context of the Ukraine war, the UN reported that civilian casualties in the first eight months of 2026 exceeded those in all of 2025. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has addressed the UNGA multiple times, urging member states to impose stricter economic measures against Russia despite its vetoes in the Security Council. "Many of you here have seen more than once how the abuse of the veto at the UN weakens the world and pushes peace further away," Zelenskyy stated.
Regarding the situation in Gaza, the UN has labeled Israel's actions as genocide but has struggled to exert meaningful influence, facing repeated vetoes of Security Council resolutions and targeting of UN relief agencies by Israel. Alanna O’Malley, a professor at Erasmus University, emphasized that the veto issue hampers the UN's effectiveness in addressing conflicts.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted the humanitarian impacts of ongoing conflicts, including reduced food access and rising fuel prices. The UNGA provides a platform for discussions among member states, but significant agreements are unlikely. O'Malley noted that the assembly remains the only forum where all 193 member states are equal, and efforts are underway to invoke new procedures to address veto deadlocks.
Historical mechanisms, such as a 1950 resolution, allow the UNGA to debate issues vetoed in the Security Council. In 2022, a new mechanism was introduced requiring permanent council representatives to explain their vetoes before the UNGA. Calls for reform have intensified since 2023, particularly in light of the situation in Gaza.
The UNGA faces the challenge of maintaining relevance as major powers pursue unilateral actions. The administration of US President Trump established its own Board of Peace, claiming responsibilities previously held by UN agencies. Additionally, Chinese President Xi Jinping opted not to attend the UNGA, preferring bilateral talks with President Trump.
Guterres acknowledged that the Security Council's inability to pass binding resolutions creates an environment of impunity, encouraging major powers to act without fear of consequences. His term is set to end on December 31, and the Security Council will recommend a successor.
Forti indicated that member states are seeking a new secretary-general who can refocus on conflict prevention while addressing criticisms of the UN's efficiency and funding challenges. The next leader will need to balance diplomatic efforts with financial constraints.