In today’s uncertain and conflict-ridden world, the United Nations remains a vital institution of diplomacy, human values, and global cooperation. Yet, in mainstream media, most references to the UN focus on perceived inaction—particularly by the Security Council. Headlines often ask: Why does the UN not stop the wars in Ukraine, the Middle East, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Yemen, and beyond?
There is widespread misunderstanding about the role of “UN soldiers.” These are not standing troops ready for deployment at the discretion of the Secretary-General. Rather, they are peacekeepers recruited from national governments, authorized by the Security Council for specific missions. Any extension of their deployment also requires the Council’s approval.
Governments Hold the Power to Wage—and End—Wars
Since most wars are initiated by governments, it is those same governments that must ultimately decide to end them. The UN Charter, which every member state has signed, explicitly calls for the resolution of conflicts through peaceful means, non-aggression, and respect for sovereignty. The primary responsibility for maintaining peace lies with the Security Council—particularly its five permanent members.
For civil society, these UN matters are not abstract diplomatic issues. They directly affect lives. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), professional associations, and other entities play a critical role in mobilizing citizens to hold their governments accountable. Through public pressure, they can advocate for peace, human rights, social justice, and the rule of law. Citizens have both the right and the duty to participate in these public policy discussions.
Beyond War and Peace: The UN’s Everyday Impact
While security issues dominate headlines, the UN is an expansive system of over 50 agencies, commissions, and programmatic entities that impact civil society in profound ways. Organizations like UNHCR, OHCHR, UNICEF, WFP, and UN Women rely on close partnerships with NGOs for both policy development and field operations. Other agencies, including WHO, UNESCO, UNEP, and UNDP, actively seek input from civil society to shape effective programs and policies.
A key challenge is funding. The UN has no independent financial resources; its budget is determined by member states, often after long and contentious debates. The effectiveness of UN programs depends on governments fulfilling their financial commitments—on time and in full. When nations threaten to cut funding for specific UN agencies, it is an attack on global solidarity and cooperation. Civil society must be vigilant in opposing such actions and advocating for adequate resources.
The Power—and Challenge—of International Agreements
Another crucial aspect of UN governance is the extensive body of international conventions and treaties negotiated and ratified by member states. These agreements set universal standards on issues ranging from human rights to environmental protections. However, ratification is often just the first step. Many governments fail to incorporate these agreements into national law or implement them effectively.
Civil society plays a key role in ensuring accountability. Organizations must advocate for the enforcement of treaties and expose non-compliance, particularly in authoritarian regimes that restrict civil freedoms. The shrinking space for civil society in some parts of the world is a direct challenge to the principles enshrined in international law. Defending these rights is not just about policy—it is about safeguarding human dignity and justice.
A Shared Responsibility for the Future
The United Nations is more essential than ever. The crises of today and tomorrow—pandemics, climate change, migration, economic instability, biodiversity loss, human trafficking—transcend national borders. The Westphalian model of sovereign states cannot, on its own, address these global challenges.
Civil society must continue to support the UN in moving beyond good intentions to concrete, multilateral solutions. Our common future depends on it. And it is in our hands to shape it.
This article is part of an exclusive agreement. between Boardroom and the UIA.