The United Nations’ long road to restoring trust
The 81st United Nations General Assembly is focusing on the challenge of restoring global trust in the organization's ability to deliver results. Recent polls indicate declining public confidence due to structural issues, perceived power imbalances, and the inability to effectively enforce international law.
Why it matters
The UN's perceived loss of efficacy impacts global diplomacy and the resolution of international conflicts.
As world leaders gathered in New York for the high-level week of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, they debated an increasingly urgent question: trust. This year’s theme, chosen by wide-ranging consultations, was: “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: a UN that delivers for all” — with “restoration” suggesting a collapse of trust. The world has historically been a low-trust society. Mistrust between nations has fuelled conflict throughout history. The UN was hence established after the Second World War to make the actions of nation-states more predictable, by creating a space for dialogue and an elaborate scaffolding of international law. The game of thrones would still be played, but with some rules. The UN has been one of humanity’s greatest achievements precisely because of its ability to build and channel trust between nations.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in