Shifting paradigms: United to Deliver - UN80 Initiative - Report of the Secretary-General

Introduction

1. The United Nations marks its 80th anniversary in a world scarred by brutal and widespread conflicts, deep inequalities and injustice, flagrant violations of human rights and looming existential threats. It is also a world of lightning-fast, transformative change – and unprecedented opportunity. These forces are testing the United Nations system itself, which is navigating heightened political tensions and divisions, financial strain and uncertainty.

2. But it is precisely in this moment of crisis and possibility that the United Nations has never been more needed. Our mission – to advance peace, dignity, and justice for all – is even more vital today. The world needs the UN’s one-of-a-kind legitimacy, convening power and vision to unite nations, bridge divides and seize the opportunities of our time.

3. That is the logic – and urgency – of the UN80 Initiative. We should approach its Workstream 3, and this re-examination of our structures and programmes, with full appreciation of what is at stake and with honesty and lucidity to strengthen what works and to improve what does not. Complex systems often default to caution and the familiarity of the status quo; today’s realities demand political courage and shared resolve to deliver meaningful change.

4. Our 80th anniversary is therefore a moment of opportunity: a chance to ensure that the forces of renewal and progress prevail over inertia. By acting with unity and purpose now, we can carry forward the remarkable achievements of the past eight decades and equip the Organization to meet the challenges of the future.

5. That effort begins with a candid recognition: the UN system has been built over time – mandate by mandate, crisis by crisis – rather than from a single blueprint. Like any large, long-standing institution, no one would design it today exactly as it stands. But this moment also calls for our Organization to rise to the challenges as demands and needs grow. With numerous entities, governance arrangements and mandates, there is significant scope to strengthen efficiency, effectiveness, coherence, transparency and accountability. We must act with resolve to deliver the results the world expects and deserves

6. This document presents a series of proposals and ideas for the consideration of Member States that, if acted upon, can set in motion paradigm-shifting processes of change in how the UN system is structured and how its parts work together. It will be for Member States to judge the merits and to engage in the decision-making processes required.