United Nations

The report's optimism stems from the observation that 2023 marked the first year where the continued expansion of building construction was decoupled from the corresponding rise in sector greenhouse gas emissions.

A high degree of convergence has been reached in 29 out of 32 articles that are proposed to make up the treaty text. However, three areas require significant further work.

The United States currently pays about 22 per cent of the United Nations’ regular budget and 27 per cent of the peacekeeping budget. As of now, the United States owes $1.5 billion to the UN’s regular budget.

In the past five years, 88 per cent of countries have passed laws to eliminate violence against women and girls. 44 per cent are working towards improving the quality of education and training. More girls are now attending secondary and tertiary education compared to boys.

During a fiery exchange in the Oval Office, Trump accused Zelensky of “overplaying his hand” and dismissed Ukraine’s appeals for defined security guarantees.

In more positive developments and despite a global rise in executions, a growing number of countries are abolishing the practice – spurred by the Global South.

As the third year of war unfolds, the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine remains one of the most pressing global emergencies. The need for sustainable peace cannot be overstated.

“Terrorism and violent extremism remain persistent scourges. We see a dark spirit of impunity spreading.  The prospect of nuclear war remains – outrageously – a clear and present danger.”