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Introduction

As the UN marks its 80th anniversary, it must redefine its role in a changing world. Formed after World War II to preserve peace, it now faces fragmented geopolitics, weakened multilateralism, and global threats like climate change and cyber warfare. Its relevance hinges on reform and renewed global commitment.

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Relevance of the UN in addressing 21st-century global challenges

• Peacekeeping and Conflict Resolution: The UN continues to serve as a stabilising force in fragile states, maintaining peace through missions and diplomatic engagement.
  Eg: It has played effective roles in East Timor and Namibia, ensuring smooth transitions to stability.
• Humanitarian Assistance and Relief Operations: UN agencies work tirelessly to alleviate suffering caused by war, famine, and displacement.
  Eg: The UNHCR, WFP, and UNICEF have provided critical aid in conflict and disaster zones across the world.
• Norm-Setting and Global Governance: The UN’s role in shaping global norms on human rights and sustainable development remains unparalleled.
  Eg: The 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reflect its ongoing leadership in inclusive global development.
• Global Health and Crisis Coordination: The UN and its specialised agencies have supported coordination among member states during major crises.
  Eg: Through WHO-led mechanisms, the UN facilitated pandemic response and vaccine cooperation globally.
• Platform for Global Dialogue: The UN remains a universal forum for diplomacy and negotiation among unequal powers.
  Eg: Despite tensions, it continues to allow smaller nations to engage equally with major powers on global issues.

Challenges for the UN in addressing global challenges

• Outdated Security Council Structure: The UNSC still reflects 1945 power hierarchies, excluding major emerging powers from permanent membership.
  Eg: Countries like India, Germany, Japan, Brazil, and South Africa have long demanded reform for equitable representation.
• Erosion of Multilateralism: Rising nationalism and distrust have weakened collective problem-solving and cooperation..
• Veto Power Paralysis: The veto system continues to obstruct decisive action in humanitarian and security crises.
  Eg: Powerful nations often use their vetoes to shield allies, as seen in repeated deadlocks within the Security Council.
• Funding Constraints and Politicisation: Delayed or politically motivated funding weakens UN operations and staff capacity.
  Eg: Defaults by major contributors like the U.S. have forced the Secretariat to cut staff and freeze programmes.
• Bureaucratic Inefficiency: Slow decision-making and lack of institutional agility limit the UN’s responsiveness to emerging challenges.

Way Forward

• Comprehensive UNSC Reform: Expanding permanent and non-permanent membership and limiting veto misuse can make the UN more credible.
  Eg: India’s demand for UNSC reform reflects the need for representation aligned with the realities of 2025.
• Enhancing Agility and Responsiveness: Streamlining decision-making and leveraging digital tools can improve crisis response.
• Financial Independence and Accountability: A predictable funding model will ensure operational stability and reduce political influence.
  Eg: Sustainable financing mechanisms are essential to prevent disruptions caused by delayed member contributions.
• Promoting Inclusive and Multipolar Multilateralism: Greater participation of the Global South and emerging powers can enhance legitimacy.
  Eg: India’s vision of cooperation based on dignity and sovereignty aligns with a more inclusive UN framework.
• Reclaiming the UN’s Moral and Ethical Voice: Upholding truth, justice, and universal values will restore faith in its mission.

Conclusion

The United Nations remains humanity’s most enduring forum for global cooperation but faces declining credibility and institutional inertia. To stay relevant, it must reform, rebuild moral authority, and embrace inclusivity to tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century.

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