Today, Explained You can’t spell “dysfunction” without the UN
Sep 19, 2022
Uri Friedman, managing editor at the Atlantic Council and a contributor to The Atlantic, dives into the pressing dysfunction of the United Nations, spotlighting its failures during the Ukraine conflict. He critiques the ineffectiveness of the UN Security Council and its veto powers, discussing the urgent need for reforms. Friedman also highlights innovative proposals, including a new initiative from Liechtenstein aimed at making changes to how vetoes are handled—showing how the UN can adapt to restore its relevance in global diplomacy.
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Russia's Invasion and UN Inaction
- Russia invaded Ukraine while presiding over the UN Security Council.
- This demonstrated the UN's ineffectiveness in addressing aggression by permanent members.
Ukraine's Proposal for U24
- Ukraine's president proposed a "U24" coalition for rapid response to crises.
- He highlighted the UN's failure to address the invasion, calling for new international mechanisms.
UN Security Council's Structural Vulnerability
- The UN Security Council's structure makes it vulnerable to aggression by permanent members.
- It was not designed to police its own powerful members, hindering its ability to prevent conflicts.