United Nations faces financial crisis and rising global conflicts

The United Nations is facing a dual crisis of escalating global violence and severe financial instability. The organization is grappling with $1.56 billion in unpaid membership dues, with the United States identified as the largest debtor. This fiscal strain is compounded by a projected 15 percent budget cut for 2025-2026 and a 19 percent reduction in workforce, creating uncertainty regarding staff salaries.

Simultaneously, global security is deteriorating, with the number of active armed conflicts rising to 65, the highest level since 1946. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani addressed the UN General Assembly, warning that the post-World War II international order is failing. He emphasized that the UN must regain its capacity to act before force becomes the sole rule of international relations, advocating for the “strength of politics” over the “politics of force.”

The UN Security Council remains largely paralyzed by the veto powers of the United States, Russia, and China, limiting the organization's role primarily to humanitarian relief rather than conflict prevention in regions such as Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and Myanmar.