The United Nations headquarters in New York witnessed a year of profound turbulence as the organization grappled with escalating global conflicts, deepening humanitarian emergencies, and intensifying geopolitical fractures. The multilateral system faced unprecedented strain throughout 2025, testing the institution’s capacity to maintain international peace and security.
The Palestinian situation emerged as a dominant concern, culminating in the 80th UN General Assembly’s adoption of the ‘New York Declaration’ on September 12. This resolution, crafted through Franco-Saudi collaboration and supported by 142 nations, demanded an immediate ceasefire, prisoner releases, and the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state. This diplomatic achievement coincided with a wave of recognitions, with the UK, Canada, Australia, and numerous other states formally acknowledging Palestinian statehood. By late September, an overwhelming 157 of 193 member states had extended recognition.
November marked a significant breakthrough when the Security Council finally endorsed a US-proposed Gaza ceasefire plan after two years of deadlock. The resolution authorized an International Stabilization Force to support reconstruction efforts, representing a notable shift from previous American vetoes that had blocked similar measures. China’s UN ambassador Fu Cong emphasized the urgency, stating: ‘Gaza already faces famine with rapidly spreading disease. As a permanent member, the US must support the council’s duties rather than undermine UN authority.’
The organization simultaneously confronted internal challenges, including a deepening liquidity crisis exacerbated by reduced contributions from the United States and other Western donors. President Donald Trump’s extended General Assembly speech criticized the UN’s operational framework, accusing the organization of funding migratory assaults on Western nations.
Structural reform gained momentum with the December launch of the Group of Friends of Global Governance, comprising 43 founding members. China championed reforms that would enhance developing nations’ representation and reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. Ambassador Fu articulated this vision: ‘We must uphold the UN Charter’s principles, advance international relations democratization, and strengthen developing countries’ voice in global affairs.’
The reform debate intensified when China opposed Japan’s Security Council aspirations, with Fu declaring Japan ‘totally unqualified’ following Prime Minister Takaichi’s comments regarding a potential ‘Taiwan contingency.’ China subsequently submitted formal objections to the Secretary-General reaffirming Taiwan as China’s internal affair.
As the year concluded amidst ongoing conflicts, Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a poignant New Year’s message urging global leaders to ‘choose people and planet over pain,’ acknowledging that ‘chaos and uncertainty surround us’ as the world stands at a critical crossroads.