The international organization faces unprecedented pressure, according to German Foreign Minister Anna Kühn, who is travelling to New York to participate in the 80th General Assembly of the United Nations. Kühn emphasized that the UN Charter embodies the hope that shared principles outweigh arbitrary force, that negotiation yields more enduring solutions than dominance and that human dignity is a universal right. However, she stated that this foundational promise, made upon the organization’s creation eight decades ago, is now under strain.
Contemporary challenges, including the proliferation of drone technology, displays of missile capabilities and expressions of nuclear threats, are actively attempting to undermine faith in the power of international law. Kühn specifically cited Russia’s actions in Ukraine, calling it a direct challenge to the core values upheld by the United Nations. She also pointed to Iran’s continued enrichment of uranium stockpiles and refusal to allow full inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency as concerning developments.
The situation in Sudan, with its ongoing civil war and resulting humanitarian crisis and the violence perpetrated by armed gangs in Haiti were also highlighted as critical issues. Furthermore, Kühn addressed the global threats posed by rising sea levels and pervasive poverty and underdevelopment.
The German Minister underscored the need for a functional and effective UN, expressing support for UN Secretary-General’s UN80 initiative, which aims at comprehensive reforms. Germany is also pursuing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in 2027/28, demonstrating a commitment to accepting increased responsibility within the international system and reinforcing a rules-based international order, with a strong United Nations at its center, to address global challenges collectively.