The World in a Predicament: What is the Peacebuilding Commission and Why is it More Crucial Than Ever?
In a world described as being in a “predicament,” United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has underscored the urgent need for peacebuilding efforts. Speaking at the 19th session of the Organizational Committee of the UN Peacebuilding Commission on Thursday, Guterres highlighted the essential tools provided by the peacebuilding architecture, which includes the Commission, the Peacebuilding Support Office, and the Peacebuilding Fund. These entities work in tandem with UN country teams to translate aspirations into tangible realities.
Guterres warned of the global spread of conflicts, widening geopolitical divisions, and an escalating climate crisis coupled with growing inequality. He stated, “All of this, and more, makes the work of the Peacebuilding Commission more crucial than ever.”
The Peacebuilding Commission is an intergovernmental advisory body that supports peace efforts in countries emerging from conflict. Comprised of 31 member states elected by the General Assembly, Security Council, and Economic and Social Council, it includes countries that provide significant financial contributions or troop contingents to UN operations.
The Future Pact and the Peacebuilding Commission
Guterres praised the Commission’s advisory role to the Security Council and its importance in convening meetings within and outside the UN, involving civil society, the private sector, international and regional organizations, and financial institutions. He remarked, “Now, we have the opportunity to enhance and expand this work,” referencing the Future Pact, which outlines a path for international cooperation reform, prioritizing prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding.
In his latest report on peacebuilding and sustaining peace, Guterres provided concrete suggestions where the Commission can catalyze national efforts at pivotal moments. He encouraged the Commission to leverage its rich experience to guide discussions in the General Assembly and the Security Council with actionable recommendations to strengthen the peacebuilding architecture and transform lives.
On funding, Guterres noted that while the General Assembly’s approval of contributions to the Peacebuilding Fund is a significant step, it falls far short of the required annual leap to $500 million. He expressed confidence in the review of the peacebuilding architecture to further explore how to ensure the Fund’s resources are predictable, sufficient, and sustainable, including through innovative financing mechanisms, public-private partnerships, and blended finance models.
In a time where the world faces unprecedented challenges, the role of the Peacebuilding Commission stands out as a beacon of hope and action towards sustainable peace.
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