United Nations faces marginalization amid rising global conflicts

The United Nations faces increasing marginalization by major powers at a time when global instability is rising. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, there are currently approximately 130 active armed conflicts worldwide, more than double the number recorded in 2009.

Challenges requiring multilateral cooperation include surging fuel prices, climate change, artificial intelligence, terrorism, and human trafficking. Regional tensions are escalating, including Russia’s grey-zone attacks in Europe, potential conflict between China and Taiwan, and the expansion of hostilities involving Iran into Yemen and the Red Sea.

Despite the need for a central forum to address these issues, the UN’s effectiveness is being undermined. The United States administration has fallen behind on its UN dues, while President Donald Trump has used the UN podium to issue threats against Iran, describing intentions to ‘annihilate’ the nation. Critics argue that while the organization is essential for global challenges, it is increasingly becoming a forum of ‘empty words’ that struggles to resolve actual conflicts.