Originally designed to prevent the misuse of power, the UN now struggles to assert its influence. While the world is witnessing Pakistan’s growing importance as a credible mediator between the US and Iran, its prominence only makes the UN’s absence all the more noticeable. When regional actors step forward to mediate between global powers, the absence of the institution specifically created for this purpose becomes increasingly evident. Critics argue that the UN has been losing relevance for years. The conflicts in Gaza and Iran reinforce this perception. At the same time, the global order is undergoing significant transformation. The rules-based system established after World War II is under strain, as major powers increasingly bypass international norms. The structure developed over decades now appears uncertain in both relevance and future direction.
The world is also becoming more fragmented and multipolar. While such a transition may reduce unilateral dominance, a complete realignment remains uncertain. The UN now stands at a crossroads: it must adapt to the realities of a new world or risk fading into irrelevance in the face of rapidly changing global dynamics.
Ahsan Ul Haq Shaikh
Chunian
