2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations Charter, a global framework set in motion on June 26, 1945, and enforced from October 24. Over eight decades, the UN has championed peace, human rights—and coordinated large-scale humanitarian responses to disasters, conflicts, and pandemics.
Yet as the world has evolved, so too must the UN. Experts and member states are calling for reforms to make the organisation more representative and effective. A leading proposal is to expand the UN Security Council from 15 to 25 seats, adding voices from the Global South such as Brazil, India, Indonesia, Türkiye, and South Africa. The goal? A decision-making body that mirrors today’s geopolitical landscape and responds faster to crises.
At the top of the 80th UN General Assembly agenda is an urgent humanitarian crisis. A UN independent commission has highlighted large-scale abuses in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, urging immediate action and assistance for civilians. The UN’s specialised agencies are at the forefront of relief efforts—and China has emerged as one of their biggest financial backers, pledging support that helps deliver food, medicine, and shelter around the globe.
China’s involvement in UN aid programmes dates back to its founding membership. In the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, P.C. Chang—then vice-chair of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights—played a key role in drafting the document that defines today’s human rights standards. Today, China continues to shape humanitarian policy through funding and on-the-ground projects, from refugee camps to health initiatives.
As the UN celebrates its 80th birthday, the world has a stark choice: preserve the original vision or adapt to new realities. Expanding representation, bolstering enforcement of international rulings, and scaling up humanitarian aid are all critical steps. With China’s rising role in global aid, the next decade could redefine how the UN delivers on its promise to protect and uplift all people.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
