Richard Gowan

Richard Gowan, a non-resident fellow at NYU's Center on International Cooperation, and Hillel Neuer, Executive Director of UN Watch, dive into the UN's role in the Middle East. Gowan argues that UN forces act as critical buffers in the Israel-Palestine conflict to prevent escalation. In contrast, Neuer challenges this view, claiming the UN's actions often lack neutrality and exacerbate tensions. They explore the effectiveness of UNRWA and peacekeeping forces while debating their impact on regional stability and humanitarian issues.

Richard Gowan, Director for UN and Multilateral Diplomacy at the International Crisis Group, discusses the UN's 80th anniversary and its role in a changing world. He emphasizes the UN's ongoing relevance for refugees and peacekeeping, despite criticisms. Gowan contrasts the quick-fix diplomacy favored by leaders like Donald Trump with the UN's long-term approach to peace. He also highlights troubling trends of states undermining UN operations and financial cuts threatening its efforts, urging a reassessment of member states’ commitment to reform.

Steve Pomper, Crisis Group policy chief on NATO and transatlantic strategy; Olga Oliker, Europe and Central Asia director focused on European security; Richard Gowan, analyst of multilateral diplomacy. They debate a U.S. Board of Peace with a widened global remit and its risks to the UN. They also unpack the Greenland spat, transatlantic strain, implications for Ukraine, and how European leaders might respond.

Richard Gowan, an expert in UN and multilateral diplomacy at the International Crisis Group, provides insights on the upcoming UN General Assembly. He discusses what to expect from President Trump's address and the ongoing crises, particularly the war in Gaza. Gowan delves into the recent two-state summit involving France and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the challenges of gaining support. He also addresses the implications of US funding cuts for the UN and the critical roles it still plays in global peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.

Chris Ogden, an Associate Professor and Global Studies Director, discusses how U.S. Republican efforts threaten UN funding and its influence. Eugene Chen, a Senior Fellow at NYU, highlights the UN's liquidity crisis exacerbated by funding cuts from both the U.S. and China. Richard Gowan, Director of UN Affairs, raises the issue of bureaucratic inefficiency while proposing reforms needed for sustainable change. The conversation reveals a complex geopolitical landscape where the UN's future hinges on financial stability and the ability to adapt to global shifts.