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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
World
RFI

Calls for reform as UN marks 80th anniversary amid conflict and division

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speak during a high-level United Nations General Assembly meeting to mark the United Nations' 80th anniversary at the UN headquarters in New York City on 22 September, 2025. © Timothy A. Clary / AFP

The United Nations' founding charter, which aimed "to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war", came into effect 80 years ago this month. But as today's members wrap up the annual General Assembly in New York, conflict is more than ever on the agenda, casting doubt over the UN's efficiency.

Fifty countries came together in the aftermath of World War II to sign the UN Charter in June 1945, in San Francisco, and it came into force on 24 October that year.

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