A turning point for the United Nations

11/07/2025 28 min
A turning point for the United Nations

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Episode Synopsis


Suffering internal division and stymied by geopolitical bullying, the United Nations is facing a future of diminishing influence. As the organisation marks its 80th birthday, it's also dealing with a serious financial shortfall brought on by both China and the United States, its two biggest donors. Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, has launched a major internal reform programme, but there are questions about whether his approach will rescue the global body or just cause further damage.GuestsAssociate Professor Chris Ogden — Director of Global Studies, University of AucklandEugene Chen — Senior Fellow, Center on International Cooperation, New York UniversityRichard Gowan — Director of UN Affairs, International Crisis GroupRoland Rich — former Australian ambassador. Director of the United Nations and Global Policy Master of Arts program, Rutgers University