UNITED NATIONS – As the United Nations prepares to mark its 80th anniversary this Thursday, the global body is facing growing doubts about its effectiveness, credibility, and future. Despite its long history of peacekeeping and diplomacy, many believe the UN is struggling to remain relevant in a divided and conflict-ridden world.
The 193 member states will commemorate the signing of the UN Charter on June 26, 1945, in San Francisco. However, celebrations are overshadowed by criticism over the UN’s failure to address major conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza. Experts say this is one of the worst moments in the organization’s history.
Analysts argue that the UN Security Council, with its five permanent members holding veto powers, often remains deadlocked due to conflicting national interests. As a result, the UN is frequently unable to take unified action during global crises. Critics describe the organization as politically weak and increasingly sidelined in key international matters.
Still, some believe the UN remains essential. Human rights lawyer Gissou Nia warned that abandoning UN values could lead to a world ruled by power alone. She said constant criticism—from claims of bias to mismanagement—has weakened trust in the UN, especially from countries like the United States and its allies.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently stated that the world needs the UN now more than ever, given the record number of conflicts and humanitarian crises since World War II. However, with funding shortages and political divisions, the organization has launched its UN80 reform initiative to cut costs and improve performance.
Despite its flaws, the UN continues to play a vital role on the ground—feeding millions through the World Food Programme and deploying peacekeepers to protect civilians in conflict zones. While experts say the UN needs urgent reforms, most agree the world would be worse off without it.