A brief roundup of United Nations political and peacebuilding events and developments globally.
DPPA launches publication on the history of UN special political missions
On 30 June, Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) launched United Nations Special Political Missions 1945–2025: An Overview, the first comprehensive public record of UN special political missions since 1948. Speaking at the event, Under-Secretary-General (USG) for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo reflected on nearly eight decades of UN peacemaking, conflict prevention and political transitions, emphasizing that the history of special political missions demonstrates that “diplomacy works.” She highlighted the adaptability of special political missions in responding to evolving peace and security challenges and reaffirmed the importance of diplomacy, dialogue and partnerships.
Deputy Special Coordinator Alakbarov warns of deteriorating situation in Gaza and the West Bank
On 29 June, Deputy Special Coordinator of the Secretary-General for the Middle East Peace Process Ramiz Alakbarov briefed the Security Council on the implementation of resolution 2334 (2016), warning that the situation across Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, remains deeply concerning. He highlighted continued hostilities in Gaza, the deteriorating humanitarian situation, expanding Israeli control over territory, and escalating violence and settlement activity in the West Bank. Reaffirming the Secretary-General’s position, the Deputy Special Coordinator called for the full implementation of resolution 2803 and renewed international efforts toward a negotiated two-State solution. The following day, he led a field visit to East Jerusalem with more than 20 diplomats, meeting communities affected by demolitions, evictions, movement restrictions and the threat of forcible transfer, and underscored the importance of sustained international attention to East Jerusalem.
ASG Pobee warns of growing regional risks from war in Ukraine
On 29 June, Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Africa Martha Pobee briefed the Security Council on the growing regional implications of the war in Ukraine, warning that escalating attacks and increasing reports of airspace violations and drone sightings across neighboring countries have heightened the risk of wider spillover. She called on all concerned Member States to avoid actions that could further escalate the conflict and urged renewed dialogue and diplomacy. Welcoming the latest exchange of prisoners of war and civilians between the parties, ASG Pobee stressed that “diplomacy can result in tangible outcomes” and reiterated the UN’s call for an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire.
ASG Spehar stresses diplomacy and restraint amid fragile United States–Iran ceasefire
On 2 July, ASG for Peacebuilding and Peace Support Elizabeth Spehar briefed the Security Council on recent developments between the United States and Iran, welcoming the decision by both sides to de-escalate and resume dialogue following recent military confrontations. She underscored the fragility of the current situation, condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, and stressed the need to protect freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Urging all parties to exercise “maximum restraint,” ASG Spehar reaffirmed the United Nations support for diplomacy to prevent a return to conflict and advance a durable resolution.
New UN publication explores responsible AI in electoral administration
On 1 July, USG DiCarlo opened the launch of the new UNDP–DPPA publication, From Promise to Practice: AI in Electoral Administration, highlighting the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence presents for electoral processes. She stressed that AI is already shaping elections and emphasized that its use must be guided by human rights, transparency, accountability and human oversight. Describing the publication as a practical resource for electoral management bodies, USG DiCarlo said it helps move the discussion on AI in elections “from broad principles to concrete choices.”
DPPA and Shanghai Cooperation Organization hold fourth Secretariat-to-Secretariat Dialogue
On 26 June, DPPA and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held their fourth Secretariat-to-Secretariat Dialogue at UN Headquarters, co-chaired by ASG Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific Khaled Khiari and SCO Deputy Secretary-General Ahmad Saidmurodzoda. The meeting also addressed counter-terrorism, violent extremism, drug trafficking and other transnational threats, as well as climate, peace and security, highlighting the impact of climate change, water scarcity and environmental degradation on stability and development across Central Asia and Afghanistan. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expand practical cooperation on shared priorities, including women, peace and security, youth engagement, climate and regional stability.
Colombia’s first Peace Radio Station marks anniversary
On 26 June, the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC) joined celebrations marking the anniversary of Peace Radio Station 103.5 FM in Chaparral, Tolima, the first of 20 stations established under the 2016 Peace Agreement. Since beginning broadcasts in 2019, the station has provided local communities with information on the implementation of the Agreement while serving as a platform for victims, former combatants and community members to share their voices and perspectives.
Joint visit strengthens dialogue on comprehensive rural reform
On 29 June, the UNVMC and the Office of the Ombudsman of Colombia (Defensoría del Pueblo) visited rural properties in the municipalities of Chimichagua, Tamalameque and Pailitas, in Cesar Department, and met with peasant organizations to discuss progress, challenges and opportunities related to land access and the Comprehensive Rural Reform. The visit underscored the importance of sustained dialogue with rural communities to support the implementation of the Final Peace Agreement and advance inclusive, sustainable rural development.
UNSMIL advances inclusive dialogue on Libya’s economic reforms
On 1 July, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL)convened a public livestream with members of the Economic Track of the Structured Dialogue, providing Libyans from across the country with an opportunity to discuss recommendations to address the country’s long-standing economic challenges. Participants highlighted proposals to strengthen public financial governance, diversify the economy, improve transparency and promote more balanced regional development. The discussion underscored the importance of inclusive public engagement, with participants noting that implementation will require political consensus, stronger institutions and improved access to reliable economic data.
Peacebuilding Week closes with renewed call to invest in prevention
On 26 June, USG DiCarlo addressed the closing reception of the inaugural Peacebuilding Week 2026, highlighting the importance of sustained investment in conflict prevention and nationally led peacebuilding. Reflecting on two decades of the UN Peacebuilding Architecture, she emphasized the growing international commitment to prevention and the vital role of women and young people in sustaining peace. Stressing that “prevention works—but only when we act early, and when we act together,” USG DiCarlo called for sustained political will to build lasting peace.
Next Week
On 8 July, the Security Council will hold an open debate on Women and Peace and Security under the theme "Honouring the promise of international law to survivors of conflict-related sexual violence."
