UN dismisses concerns over Trump's new Board of Peace
Illustrative photo: UN Security Council in session (Getty Images)
The United Nations is not worried about the creation of the Board of Peace as a potential competitor and intends to continue with its mandated work, according to Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Farhan Haq.
He said that there have been a number of organizations—regional organizations, defense alliances, and others—that have coexisted with the UN over the 80 years that the UN's been in existence. Regarding the Board of Peace, the Deputy Spokesperson emphasized that the Security Council has endorsed it.
"And of course, we continue to abide by that resolution. What happens in the future, we'll have to see," Haq said, adding that the UN is not concerned about new organizations and continues with its mandated work.
The Deputy Spokesperson also noted that "the UN has its Charter, has a lengthy history of achievements, and a large set of mandated tasks" that it has to do constantly.
Response to Trump's criticism
Addressing criticism from US President Donald Trump, Haq said the organization is planning to improve its operations.
"We've made clear that we are doing our utmost to improve how the UN works, so it works well for all stakeholders," the Deputy Spokesperson said.
In this context, he reminded that UN Secretary-General António Guterres "has launched the UN80 Initiative, designed to increase the efficiency of the UN."
According to the Deputy Spokesperson, "the UN will continue to relentlessly work for peace, in full respect for international law and with a comprehensive effort to address the root causes of conflict to ensure sustainable solutions for peace."
He also noted that Secretary-General Guterres did not attend the World Economic Forum in Davos due to illness and was working from home.
Trump's Board of Peace and UN
Amid the creation of the Board of Peace by US President Donald Trump, several countries have raised concerns about potential competition with the UN, especially since Trump has previously criticized the organization for inefficiency.
Late last year, Trump accused the UN of inaction on global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine.
Trump's Board of Peace was initially intended to address the war in Gaza, but discussions have since emerged about expanding it. An anonymous Ukrainian official told media that Trump even plans to use the Board of Peace to help mediate the war in Ukraine.
The Board of Peace, which will focus on resolving military conflicts, will be led by the US President. He recently invited world leaders to join, but many European countries have ignored the invitation.
Trump also recently announced that permanent membership in the Board of Peace would require a $1 billion cash contribution.
