World leaders from around the globe will gather at the United Nations General Assembly from September 22-30, 2025 to discuss the most pressing issues facing our world today. As they convene, one of the top priorities must be to protect the UN from powerful governments seeking to defund and undermine its capacity to promote human rights and international justice. This call to action comes from Human Rights Watch, a leading international organization dedicated to defending and protecting human rights.
On the eve of the General Assembly’s annual general debate, world leaders will have the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to protecting the UN and its important mission. The UN has long been a symbol of hope and progress for millions around the world, serving as a beacon of hope for those living in conflict zones, facing human rights abuses, and seeking justice.
However, in recent years, the UN has faced significant challenges, particularly from powerful governments who seek to undermine its independence and authority. These governments have attempted to defund crucial programs and agencies, such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, in an effort to limit the UN’s ability to hold them accountable for human rights violations.
This is a dangerous trend that must be addressed head-on by world leaders at the General Assembly. The UN’s mandate to promote and protect human rights, peace, and international justice must be upheld and strengthened, not weakened by external forces.
The consequences of failing to protect the UN from such attacks are dire. Millions of people around the world, particularly those living in conflict-affected areas, rely on the UN for aid, protection, and justice. Without a strong and independent UN, their lives will be put at risk, and their rights will be violated with impunity.
Furthermore, the UN plays a crucial role in promoting global cooperation and addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. Undermining the UN’s capacity to fulfill its mandate is not only detrimental to human rights but also to global peace and stability.
It is time for world leaders to step up and take a stand for the UN. They must commit to protecting it from powerful governments seeking to weaken its capacity to promote human rights and international justice. This commitment must not only be in words but also in actions.
First and foremost, world leaders must fully fund the UN and its agencies. The UN relies heavily on voluntary contributions from member states, and the recent trend of decreased funding from certain governments is concerning. It is time for all member states to fulfill their financial obligations to the UN and ensure that it has the resources it needs to carry out its important work.
Moreover, world leaders must defend the UN’s independence and stand against any attempts to undermine it. This includes speaking out against human rights violations and holding accountable those responsible, regardless of their political or economic power.
Lastly, world leaders must work together to strengthen the UN’s capacity to promote and protect human rights, peace, and international justice. This can be achieved through increased cooperation and support from member states, as well as reforms within the organization itself.
As we look towards the future, it is essential to remember the foundational role that the UN plays in promoting and protecting human rights and international justice. It is up to world leaders to ensure that the UN remains a strong and independent force for good in the world. We call on them to commit to protecting the UN at the upcoming General Assembly and to take concrete actions towards this goal. Let us not forget that the success and progress of humanity depend on a strong and effective United Nations.
