As aid funds shrink, archivists warn of risks to the humanitarian record
UNHCR's archives are a test case for humanitarians struggling to preserve institutional memory in an era of retrenchment.
United Nations
The United Nations is the world's primary forum for diplomacy and peace. Founded in the wake of WWII to prevent global conflict, this organization of 193 member nations now serves as the stage for addressing our most pressing challenges — from climate change to human rights. We cover the U.N.'s policies and efforts to build a more peaceful, just, and prosperous world.
Enjoy our Free+ stories and our weekly newsletter
Start your free accessAlready have an account? Log in
China launches intergovernmental body to shape global AI governance
Twenty-nine countries joined the Shanghai-based organization as Beijing offered aid to developing nations.
U.S. moves to 'systematically disable' ICC in major escalation against court
U.S. State Department says no diplomatic option is off limits as Washington pressures countries to reject the court's authority.
Aid cuts force women-led groups to scale back services as needs grow
Organizations serving women and girls in conflict zones are reaching a breaking point as humanitarian funding declines.
The U.N.'s AI governance vision pushes coordination, not regulation
Discussions in Geneva revealed concern over fragmented regulation, unequal access and the need for safeguards.
Sustainable Development Goals pose a difficult test for multilateralism
Can a divided and polarized world still work together to confront problems that no nation can solve alone?
The U.N. moves to build an architecture for AI governance
A new scientific panel, global political forum, leadership commission and summit shape the U.N.'s approach to AI.
Who gets to govern AI? U.N. panel warns access alone is not enough
Report argues countries may gain access to AI but lose influence over standards, infrastructure and governance.
Why parliaments are emerging as the next frontier of AI governance
Incoming IPU chief Anda Filip argues lawmakers must play a larger role as AI reshapes democratic institutions.
The next U.N. leader may need to be a science diplomat
Scientists and policy leaders argue the secretary-general's job is increasingly shaped by science and technology.
Global children's education setbacks concentrate in 20 crisis-hit countries
The total number of crisis-affected children has increased by 21 million over the past 18 months, according to the report.
Accra conference moves reparations debate from recognition to action
Organizers described it as the next step to implementation following the U.N. General Assembly's March decision.
Grossi calls for 'a dose of realism' as U.N. faces a crisis of confidence
The IAEA chief argued that authority, credibility and practical results will determine the future of multilateral institutions.
Secretary-general candidates call for a more activist U.N. as race heats up
At the first globally televised debate of the 2026 contest, contenders argued the U.N. must rebuild trust through results.
U.N. appeal shows how regional conflict is reshaping Lebanon
While the request reflects immediate needs, officials describe the crisis as a threat to Lebanon's long-term resilience.
Germany's Security Council defeat exposes limits of influence at U.N.
Despite being the U.N.'s second-largest contributor, Berlin failed to secure a two-year seat, losing to Portugal and Austria.