A recap of the UN general assembly.

Each year, the United Nations (UN) convenes in New York to discuss the state of global affairs. For years, the UN General Assembly has led to monumental decisions and impactful changes that have shaped the trajectory of history. Indeed, the partition of Palestine that led to the Nakba was decided at the UN General Assembly. Following in history's footsteps, today's meeting is paramount to analyze and break down to predict the future of our entire globe. Now more than ever, there is a lot to talk about. For starters, Trump delivered a speech filled with "America First" rhetoric, endless quips, and degrading remarks towards the UN itself. In his hour-long ramblings, he began by criticizing the failing teleprompter and ended with vague boastfulness of America's place in international politics. Indeed, a common theme throughout Trump's remarks was the incessant focus on undermining the efficacy of the UN while propping up America's own efforts. It's no small secret that Trump is putting in a heavy bid for the Nobel Peace Prize. Thus, yesterday's international speech was merely Trump rattling off his recent resumé. He falsely claimed that, as the UN failed, he stepped up to end seven "unendable" wars. Moreover, he criticized other countries for not adhering to restrictive immigration policies. In typical outlandish Trump fashion, he claimed, "I'm really good at this stuff; your countries are going to hell." However, Trump's rhetoric is not only a laughing matter; it signals a potentially dangerous spiral in the international community. The U.S is, in fact, a model for other countries. Trump's sweeping authoritarian moves and his continued encouragement of nations around the world to implement similar policies could have disastrous consequences in the fight against global fascism.

Next, we turn our attention towards the African leaders of the world delivering powerful speeches in the international community. Guinea-Bissau, The Gambia, Ethiopia, Botswana, and South Sudan all came together with one central message: Africa is not heard. A more equitable global world order is not only necessary but integral to the health of the world. Specifically, the UN Security Council, a group of member states with increased influence, does not have enough representation of Africa. The group has five permanent members: France, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Although ten additional members are elected at each general assembly with two-year terms, there are no African countries that are permanent members. That's crucial because UN Security Council members have the power to veto legislation with just one vote. Unequivocally, Africa and the Global South need more representation and influence in international relations.

Possibly the largest announcement out of the UN General Assembly was the support of Palestine as an independent state. It started with Netanyahu's extremist speech in which many members simply left the room. Indeed, the Prime Minister was delivering remarks to a largely empty audience. However, his fiery sentiments cannot be ignored as he called for increased annexation efforts. Largely, Netanyahu feels threatened by his waning control. Western countries like the U.K., France, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Andorra, and Belgium have all recognized Palestine as a state. Crucially, 4 out of 5 UN Security Council members have now formally recognized a Palestinian State. Remember, although these countries will never fully rid their guilty conscience, recognition is the first step. International legitimacy grants the Palestinian people a voice to be heard, officially. Indeed, Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), represents resilience. Despite President Trump denying a visa to Mr. Abbas, through virtual remarks, he powerfully dictates, "Palestine Is Ours".

The 80th UN General Assembly is an important one. As global liberation movements pick up steam, authoritarian countries seek more control, and massive humanitarian crises go unheard, the UN can become a beacon of hope or a systemic failure to global citizens. As we dive deeper into an uncertain future, one thing is clear: reform within the UN is necessary for global equity.