As the world braces for the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), set to commence next Monday, New York City is poised to welcome an influx of leaders and diplomats from around the globe. This year’s gathering comes at a precarious time for both the international community and the United Nations itself, as pressing geopolitical tensions threaten the fabric of global cooperation.
While the U.N. celebrates its 80th anniversary, it does so amidst growing skepticism regarding its efficacy in addressing global crises. The organization’s ability to mediate conflicts has come under fire, particularly with ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine—issues that will dominate discussions at UNGA.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, a vocal critic of the U.N., casts a long shadow over this year’s assembly. His administration’s withdrawal from multiple U.N. agencies, including the World Health Organization and the Human Rights Council, has left a significant void. With the U.S. being the host nation of U.N. headquarters and a primary financial contributor, Trump’s stance introduces an element of uncertainty as he prepares to address the assembly without a confirmed ambassador, following delays in Mike Waltz’s nomination.
Trump’s “America First” approach stands in stark contrast to the multilateralism that the U.N. embodies. His administration’s cuts to U.N. funding and foreign aid have fueled accusations that the organization exploits the resources of the United States. As a result, there is palpable tension between those who advocate for global collaboration and those like Trump, who view international institutions with suspicion.
In an effort to reaffirm its relevance, the theme of this year’s UNGA is “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights.” U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized the critical need for collective action, stating, “This cannot be about scoring points—it must be about solving problems. There is too much at stake.” Guterres has also warned of deepening geopolitical divides that challenge international cooperation, referencing the “turbulent—even uncharted—waters” the world currently navigates.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza will be a central topic during the assembly. Recently, an independent commission from the U.N. Human Rights Council concluded that Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people. In a significant shift, several countries, including France and the United Kingdom, are expected to formally recognize Palestine as a state during UNGA. Although these actions are largely symbolic, they signal a rising tide of global opposition to Israel’s military actions.
In a controversial move, the United States has blocked visas for the Palestinian delegation, including President Mahmoud Abbas and around 80 officials. This unprecedented ban raises serious concerns about compliance with the 1947 U.N. agreement that mandates unimpeded access for representatives of U.N. members. Despite the U.S. State Department’s assurance that the Palestinian Authority’s mission will receive waivers, the ban has been met with outrage from experts and advocates for diplomatic engagement.
The ongoing war in Ukraine will also feature prominently at UNGA. Trump, who has advocated for peace negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow, is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the assembly’s sidelines. The outcome of these discussions could influence U.S. foreign policy regarding the conflict.
In addition to Gaza and Ukraine, a range of issues is anticipated to surface at UNGA, including Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the implications of artificial intelligence, and the ever-pressing challenges posed by climate change.
Beyond the U.N. gathering, noteworthy developments are occurring on the global stage. In a bid to enhance technological collaboration, Trump and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently signed a “Technology Prosperity Deal,” aimed at fostering partnerships in artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, and quantum computing. This agreement represents a significant investment, with both nations pledging to bolster economic ties across the Atlantic.
Meanwhile, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have solidified their commitment to mutual defense through a newly signed pact, which obligates the two nations to defend each other against external threats. This agreement, which elevates defense cooperation, comes at a time when regional security dynamics are shifting.
In Gaza, Israeli military operations have intensified, leading to reports of widespread communication blackouts as residents flee escalating violence. This renewed assault has drawn sharp criticism from global leaders, including Senator Bernie Sanders, who has characterized Israel’s actions as genocidal. Sanders’ statements reflect a growing consensus among some in the U.S. regarding the need for accountability in the face of humanitarian crises.
As world leaders prepare to convene next week, the stakes are high. With pressing international issues on the agenda, the outcomes of UNGA could shape geopolitical relations for years to come. Observers will be keenly watching for how leaders address these contentious topics and whether meaningful dialogue can emerge from a gathering marked by division and uncertainty.
