Global Issues
Global Issues in the 21st Century
Health
The United Nations (UN) plays a crucial role in promoting global health.
The World Health Organization (WHO), established 7 April 1948, leads health initiatives within the UN system.
Food
The world is falling short of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger by 2030.
The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted food security and nutrition, especially among vulnerable populations.
Climate Change
Climate change presents major global challenges, affecting food production and increasing sea-level risks.
Its impacts are extensive and unprecedented in scale.
Water
Freshwater is essential for life and health; however, inadequate water supply and sanitation lead to diseases, especially among children.
Economic and infrastructural issues hinder access to safe water.
Children
Every child has rights to health, education, and protection.
Millions of children worldwide are denied opportunities due to their country, gender, or circumstances of birth.
Gender Equality
Women and girls constitute half of the global population and potential.
Achieving gender equality is vital for peaceful societies and sustainable development.
Ending Poverty
Global poverty rates had been reduced by more than half since 2000; however, the COVID-19 pandemic might increase poverty by up to 500 million people (8% of the global population).
Human Rights
The UN prioritizes human rights and is committed to helping member states comply with the UN Charter and Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Peace and Security
The UN's establishment aimed to prevent wars and promote peace after the devastation of two world wars.
Ageing
The global population is ageing, with an increased number of individuals aged 60 and over.
This demographic trend is expected to accelerate in the coming decades.
AIDS
Since 2000, new HIV infections have decreased by 35% (58% among children), and AIDS-related deaths have declined by 42% since 2004.
The global response has prevented 30 million new infections and nearly 8 million deaths since 2000.
Africa
The UN supports Africa in democratic development and conflict resolution by providing economic and social development assistance and promoting human rights.
Atomic Energy
Over 30 countries operate 444 nuclear reactors for energy, with 66 new plants under construction.
As of 2014, 13 countries relied on nuclear energy for at least 25% of their electricity needs.
Big Data for Sustainable Development
The amount of global data is growing rapidly.
Responsible use of new data sources and technologies can help track progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Decolonization
Decolonization transformed global dynamics and was a significant success for the UN.
Many countries gained independence and joined the UN as a result.
Democracy
Democracy is a core UN value that protects human rights and fosters participation in societal governance.
International Law and Justice
The UN advocates for justice and international law across its three pillars: international peace and security, economic and social progress, and human rights.
Migration
Migration is a longstanding human phenomenon, with an increasing number of individuals living outside their countries of birth.
Oceans and the Law of the Sea
Oceans cover 72 percent of the Earth's surface and have been fundamental for life, trade, and exploration throughout history.
Population
Global population growth has been significant, increasing from 2.6 billion in 1950 to approximately 7 billion in 2011.
Refugees
In 2019, 79.5 million individuals were forcibly displaced, including 26 million refugees, half of whom were under 18 years old.
Youth
Youth increasingly seek equitable opportunities and solutions, facing challenges in education, health, employment, and gender equality.