U.N. climate chief says next 2 years will be 'essential' to saving the planet
This year and next mark the countdown to a 2025 deadline for governments to strengthen their carbon-cutting plans.
United States (U.S.)
The U.S. is a major global power and a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council. It is a founding member of NATO and a key participant in a vast network of international organizations, including the G-7, G-20, OECD, and World Bank. It is currently re-evaluating its alliances and relationships, particularly with China and Russia, while also engaging in diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war and addressing new trade tensions with key partners like India.
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Trillions needed for anti-poverty goals to deal with climate, debt, war
A new U.N. report shows how prioritizing debt over services like health care and education plagues the developing world.
Human Rights Council demands nations halt arms transfers to Israel
The U.N. body also demands Israel be held accountable for possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Some humanitarian work suspended in Gaza after deadly Israeli airstrike
At least 200 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza — more than 95% Palestinians – since the outbreak of war.
NATO ally Poland urges Europe to come to grips with this 'pre-war era'
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warns 'literally any scenario is possible' in Europe since Russia invaded Ukraine.
Russia forces disbandment of U.N. panel monitoring N. Korea sanctions
A Swiss-led U.N. Security Council committee will find it harder to deal with 'suspicions' of sanctions violations.
Difficult pandemic treaty talks to be extended with extra spring session
Negotiators and officials aim to wrap up so that May's 77th World Health Assembly can consider a proposed text.
U.N. Security Council for first time agrees to demand cease-fire in Gaza
On a 14-0 vote with the U.S. abstaining, the council urged a cease-fire in Gaza during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
Biden signs U.S. spending bill with halt on UNRWA funds through 2025
The spending bill also has other 'key pro-Israel provisions' aimed at the U.N. and other international organizations.
U.N. Security Council blocked again on a proposal urging Gaza cease-fire
After the U.S. vetoed the first three proposals, China and Russia stopped the council's fourth try at a Gaza resolution.
U.N. General Assembly adopts first resolution on artificial intelligence
The resolution, backed by the U.S. and China, reflect fears AI will severely disrupt business, infrastructure and governance.
Pandemic treaty negotiators in final stretch ahead of May deadline
WHO's chief warned that 'a torrent of mis- and disinformation' affects pandemic treaty negotiations restarting this week.
Partial funding by Western nations restored to UNRWA for aid in Gaza
Several top donors including Australia, Sweden, Canada, and the E.U. resumed funding contingent on agency reforms.
Nations pushing for AI governance around issues of access and privacy
A top U.N. official cites strong concerns about mental privacy, which is 'a line that we should not cross at all' as AI develops.
Uneven post-pandemic recovery widens gap between rich and poor
Europe dominates the top rankings as development in half of the world’s poorest nations falls below pre-pandemic levels.
Haiti on brink of collapse, famine as the rule of criminal gangs spreads
Escalating violence prompts U.N. condemnation as lawless gangs terrorize and displace thousands and impede aid.