2026.04.21
The Challenges Forum shares five messages to a new UN Secretary-General
| Ahead of the upcoming interactive dialogues with UN Secretary-General candidates on 21-22 April, Challenges Forum shares a collective message to the new UN Secretary-General on the future of UN peace operations. In times of global uncertainty, the demand for effective and predictable multilateral action on peace and security is rising. While recent setbacks have exposed weaknesses, they have also underscored what works. This creates real momentum to strengthen UN peace operations and adapt them to today’s complex realities. Five priorities stand out: 🔹 Champion the central role of UN peace operations Reaffirm peace operations as a core and indispensable tool for maintaining international peace and security. 🔹Make flexible use of the full UN peace operations toolbox and networked multilateral approaches Use the full range of UN tools in an integrated and adaptable way, strengthening partnerships with regional organisations. 🔹Engage in person with host countries, conflict parties and UN field operations Lead through direct, consistent engagement to build trust, sustain consent, and support political solutions. 🔹Foster a more proactive, innovative, and efficient UN organizational culture Enable a more agile, forward-leaning UN that can act earlier and adapt to evolving challenges. 🔹Encourage a more resilient and realistic approach to UN peace operations among Member States Promote sustained political support, predictable contributions, and realistic expectations grounded in experience. The next Secretary-General has a pivotal opportunity to carry this momentum forward with clear direction and political courage. Encouragingly, a broad coalition of partners and Member States stands ready to support this effort. Read our key messages. |