UN80: An Explainer
As the United Nations grapples with major budget and resultantstaff cuts, it haslaunched ‘UN80’ – a major reform
and reorganization effort. This explainer detailsthe contours of thisimportant process and key lessons gleaned from
the processto date and on the road ahead.
Shifting Sands of Multilateralism: Change in a New International Order
With geopolitical tensions high, and the United States rethinking its relation to numerous multilateral institutions and bodies, many pundits, scholars, and diplomats have openly speculated if we are witnessing the demise of global cooperation. But, is this the case? A closer look at the last year actually suggests that multilateralism is rapidly evolving to meet the needs of the moment rather than becoming obsolete – as evidenced by the recent pandemic accord, a raft of new multilateral trade agreements, and other examples. While multilateralism faces no shortage of challenges at the moment, it is also clear that global cooperation is entering a period of genuine dynamism and change.
Lessons from the Creation of UN Women for UN80 Reforms
WHITE PAPER | November 2025
As the UN80 reform process moves forward, it is a useful moment to look back at some of the key lessons from the 2010 creation of UN Women. The importance of building demand for reform, allowing sufficient time and space to achieve alignment on desired outcomes and mandates, and injecting outside leadership and expertise into organizational planning all stand out as key points to consider in the current moment. This brief white paper shares some of the insights gleaned from a literature review of the creation of UN Women. The bottom line up-front for today’s reform efforts: well-designed restructures backed by a relatively clear vision and broad political and diplomatic support can lead to more effective operations – but failing to put those elements in place will likely lead to negative outcomes.
Priorities for the Next Secretary-General
WHITE PAPER | October 2025
The next United Nations Secretary-General is slated to be seated on January 1, 2027. This white paper explores some of the key issues – and the competencies required to tackle these key issues – that should be topline priorities for the next Secretary-General at a vastly important historical moment.