Opinion | UN at 80: Imperfect but indispensable
Summary
While the United Nations faces criticism over conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza and geopolitical vetoes, it remains an indispensable forum upholding international law and giving states a platform.
Key Points
- The UN faces significant challenges due to Security Council vetoes blocking action in conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza.
- Despite its failures, the UN continues functioning silently in many areas improving lives through agencies like UNICEF and UNHCR.
- Powerful member states' political will largely determines the UN’s effectiveness, not the institution itself.
- The UN remains indispensable as the only universal forum for equal state representation and the custodian of international law.
