‘Posturing and virtue signalling’: Observers expect little progress at annual UN general assembly

Observers added that attention and aid need to also be given to other less prominent but similarly pressing conflict zones including Sudan and Myanmar.

Simon Adams, CEO of non-profit organisation Center for Victims of Torture, said: “The fact that the Security Council is unable to have any meaningful role in resolving (these) conflicts … casts a dark shadow over the entire UN and causes people to lose faith in its future.” 

CALLS FOR REFORMS TO UNSC

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has defended the institution’s legitimacy, but has repeatedly called for reforms to the “outdated”, “unfair” and “ineffective” Security Council.

The council is charged with securing and enforcing peace, but veto power wielded by its permanent members – Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States – has consistently paralysed such efforts.

“The Security Council can’t get anything done because of the vetoes that the five members have,” said Latham, adding there needs to be fairer representation to reflect the balance of power.