Overview

• UN celebrates its 80th anniversary facing criticism over its relevance and inability to overcome Security Council deadlock on Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan conflicts.
• Funding shortfalls from US cuts under the Trump administration have forced staff reductions and strained key development and peacekeeping operations.
• Annalena Baerbock, incoming president of the UN General Assembly, has pledged to streamline decision-making and modernize institutions rooted in the post–World War II order.
• Analysts say the General Assembly lacks binding authority but can build political momentum through clearer resolutions and accountability measures.
• UN agencies such as WHO, UNICEF and the World Food Programme continue delivering lifesaving aid despite the organization’s broader challenges.