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January 15, 2026 Economic development

According to preliminary data, 2025 will be a record year for global trade, with its volume increasing by 7 percent and exceeding $35 trillion for the first time. Growth is expected to continue in 2026, but at a slower pace.

The first UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) review of the year describes an increasingly complex and fragmented global environment. Geopolitical tensions, restructuring of supply chains, accelerating digital and green transitions, and tightening regulations are reshaping trade flows and global value chains.

Below are some of the key trends that UNCTAD experts predict will shape global trade in 2026.

Slowing global growth is hitting developing economies.

Global economic growth in 2026 is projected to remain subdued at 2.6 percent. In developing countries (excluding China), it will slow to 4.2 percent.

Major economies are also losing momentum:

US: Growth will slow to 1.5 percent from 1.8 percent in 2025. China: Growth is expected to reach 4.6 percent, down from 5 percent a year earlier. Europe: Government stimulus will provide limited support to the economy, but demand will remain moderate.

Slower growth weakens export demand, tightens financial conditions, and increases vulnerability to external shocks. Developing countries will need to strengthen regional trade, diversification, and digital integration to build resilience.

Tariffs increase uncertainty

In 2026, governments are expected to continue using tariffs for protectionism and strategic pressure. Their use increased sharply in 2025, particularly in manufacturing, including in the wake of US measures.

Tariffs undermine trade even before they are actually imposed:

Rising costs weaken demand and shift supply sources; policy instability constrains investment and long-term planning.

The service sector is becoming a growth driver, widening the digital divide.

Services already account for 27 percent of global trade, and are expected to grow by about 9 percent in 2025, significantly outpacing trade in goods.

Digitalization accelerates this process, but at the same time widens the gap:

Digitally delivered services account for 56 percent of global services exports; in developed countries, their share reaches 61 percent; in the least developed countries, only 16 percent, highlighting the scale of inequality.

At the same time, new barriers are emerging due to tightening digital trade regulations. Bridging the digital divide—through infrastructure, skills development, and supportive regulation—will be key to developing countries' participation in the fastest-growing segment of global trade.

The environmental agenda is increasingly influencing trade

Environmental priorities are increasingly shaping global trade trends as climate commitments move toward practical implementation. Clean energy technology markets could reach $640 billion annually by 2030.

Meanwhile, by the end of 2025, prices for key clean energy minerals were 18-39 percent below their 2021-2022 peaks due to oversupply, slowing battery demand, and technological changes reducing the need for raw materials.

Despite falling prices, supply risks remain. Export restrictions are tightening, including measures on cobalt in the Democratic Republic of Congo and rare earth elements in China. In response, countries are increasing stockpiles and entering into bilateral agreements, increasing the risk of value chain fragmentation.

Navigating a fragmented trading environment

Among the key trends and developments in 2026, UNCTAD also highlights: pressure on global trade rules in the run-up to the World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference, the reshaping of global value chains, increased trade between countries in the Global South, climate risks and security threats to agricultural trade, and increased government regulation.

As these processes unfold, timely data, analysis, and policy support will be key. UNCTAD will continue to monitor these developments and help countries navigate the new environment, manage risks, and identify opportunities in an increasingly fragmented global trading environment.

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January 15, 2026 Humanitarian aid

Sudan has been in the grip of a brutal conflict for over 1,000 days. The country is experiencing the world's worst famine and the largest population displacement. The UN World Food Programme (WFP) continues to provide aid to the population, but the organization's resources are dwindling.

Since the civil conflict began in April 2023, WFP has provided food and cash support to more than 10 million women, men, and children in Sudan. The agency continues to deliver assistance to an average of four million people each month, including in hard-to-reach areas in the Darfur and Kordofan regions, as well as in Khartoum and Gezira states.

However, due to a lack of funding, WFP cannot carry out its operations at the scale required.

"The World Food Programme has been forced to reduce rations to the bare minimum necessary for survival. By the end of March, our food reserves in Sudan will be exhausted. Without immediate additional funding, millions of people will be left without life-saving food assistance in the coming weeks," said WFP spokesperson Ross Smith.

WFP has teams on the ground and the capacity to scale up its operations. Recently, staff reached the town of Kadugli in Kordofan, which had been cut off from aid for months.

Today, more than 21 million people in Sudan are experiencing severe food insecurity. Famine has been confirmed in parts of the country where months of fighting have made access for humanitarian workers virtually impossible. Nearly 12 million people have been forced to flee their homes.

The organization clarifies that 3.7 million children, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, suffer from malnutrition.

"We can turn the tide and prevent hunger from spreading further, but only if we have the funding to support the most vulnerable families," Smith said.

The World Food Programme needs $700 million to continue its activities in Sudan for the next six months.

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January 15, 2026 International law

The International Court of Justice continued its hearings on Thursday in a case brought by Gambia, which accuses Myanmar of genocide against the Rohingya people. The plaintiffs allege that representatives of the military junta incited hatred by calling the Rohingya "Muslim dogs" and declaring that they should be "exterminated."

Jessica Jones, a lawyer on the Gambia team, emphasized that the Rohingya have long faced humiliation and hate speech from members of the Myanmar military. She also cited a video posted on Facebook in August 2017 in which a soldier openly calls for violence against the Rohingya – which, according to Jones, is a direct violation of the 1948 Genocide Convention.

In the video, a soldier says, "We will clear out the villages where these animals live… We have guns, we have bullets… If you can take a sword, take a sword, if you can take a stick, take a stick. Take everything you can, and face these animals with confidence."

Gambia, a Muslim-majority country, claims that Myanmar's military committed massacres, sexual violence, burned villages and killed around 10,000 civilians in Rakhine state from 2016 to 2018.

In 2017, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein called what was happening in Myanmar "a classic example of ethnic cleansing," which led to around 700,000 Rohingya fleeing to Bangladesh.

In 2020, the International Court of Justice ordered Myanmar to cease actions that amount to genocide. The Gambia is currently seeking recognition of Myanmar's responsibility and compensation for the victims.

Myanmar denies deliberately targeting the Rohingya, saying the army was conducting counter-insurgency operations.

The Gambia v. Myanmar case is already historic, as it marks the first time the International Court has heard a claim brought by a state that has not itself suffered the alleged crime.

The International Court of Justice is the principal judicial organ of the UN, resolving disputes between states and issuing advisory opinions on matters of international law. It does not judge individuals, but rather determines the responsibility of states.

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January 15, 2026 UN

On Thursday, António Guterres presented his priorities for the year to the General Assembly for the last time as UN Secretary-General, pledging to use "every day of 2026" to advance a more just and secure world.

He described the current situation as a world "rife with conflict, impunity, inequality, and unpredictability," where international cooperation is undermined precisely when it is needed most. Despite this, the Secretary-General noted that the UN continues to champion key global priorities—from regulating artificial intelligence to climate action, reforming development finance, and humanitarian aid in conflict zones.

Concrete steps in 2026

In the coming weeks, Guterres said, the Organization:

will launch the work of the Independent Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence; will present the recommendations of the High-Level Panel on growth indicators "beyond GDP"; will begin monthly meetings with Member States on UN-80 initiative; will present initial assessments of possible mergers of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and UN Women with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); will continue review of peacekeeping operationsto make them “more efficient and adapted to modern challenges.”

UN reform

Speaking of funding crisisThe Secretary General stressed that the current situation cannot continue.

"Either all countries, without exception, fulfill their financial obligations under the Charter—which no longer seems to be the case. Or member states need to completely revise our financial rules to prevent a budget collapse," he noted.

At the same time, according to the UN chief, reforms are "much more than just numbers in a spreadsheet." He continued, they are about institutions that reflect the modern world: decisions must reflect the realities of 2026, not 1945.

"Let's look at the facts: every day, the share of global GDP held by advanced economies is gradually shrinking. Every day, developing economies are growing – in size, strength, and influence," Guterres recalled.

Three principles for our time

The Secretary-General identified three basic principles that should underlie all the work of the global organization.

The first is unconditional commitment. UN Charter.

"The Charter is not a menu from which to choose, but a fixed set of dishes," he emphasized. Violations of international law, he said, are occurring "in full view of the entire world, live in 4K quality."

The second is a just world.

The Secretary-General recalled the need to end violence across the planet, including Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan, emphasizing that “peace is not simply the absence of war,” but sustainable development and respect for human rights.

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The President of the UN General Assembly called on states to "stand up for multilateralism"

The third is unity in an era of division.

He warned of rising racism, xenophobia and social fragmentation and called for building "welcoming societies, not walled citadels."

Peace with nature

Guterres stressed that climate chaos is incompatible with peace.

He called for accelerating the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, combating methane emissions, halting deforestation and ensuring fair climate finance.

Unity as a choice

“The choice is clear: inclusiveness or isolation, renewal or decline,” the Secretary-General said.

The world is changing, he says, which is worrying but also inspiring.

"The United Nations is a living promise: despite our differences, we will solve problems together. Let us keep that promise," he concluded.

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Building on the principles laid out in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the agreement significantly strengthens the legal framework for the protection of two-thirds of the world's oceans. Specifically, it establishes the necessary framework for international and interagency cooperation in the development of the ocean and its resources.

Effective and timely implementation of this Agreement will make a significant contribution to the achievement of the ocean-related Sustainable Development Goals and Kunming-Montreal Global Framework in the field of biodiversity.

The ocean needs protection

Toxic chemicals and millions of tons of plastic waste flood coastal ecosystems, killing or significantly harming fish, sea turtles, seabirds, and mammals. Furthermore, hazardous particles end up in human food.

In 2021, more than 17 million tons of plastic entered the world's oceans, accounting for 85 percent of marine litter. This figure is projected to double or triple each year. Without action, by 2050, there could be more plastic in the sea than fish.

INTERVIEW | What is the importance of the new ocean agreement?

The agreement imposes liability on those who pollute the ocean and establishes mechanisms for resolving potential disputes. According to the document's provisions, parties are required to assess the potential environmental impact of any planned activities in waters beyond their national jurisdiction.

Scientists estimate that nearly 200,000 species of marine organisms have been identified to date, but the true number may be much higher. Experts from the UN Environment Programme note that humanity knows more about the Moon than about the ocean depths. The treaty is intended to promote international cooperation in ocean exploration.

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January 14, 2026 UN

Amid growing conflicts, the climate crisis, and technological divides, cooperation remains the only path to a just and sustainable future. This was stated by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, speaking at the handover ceremony of the presidency of the Group of 77 plus China, an intergovernmental organization of developing countries.

The UN chief thanked Iraq for chairing the Group in 2025 and congratulated Uruguay on assuming the presidency in 2026, noting that its agenda is "based on social justice."

According to the Secretary General,this organizationwas founded on the principles of “development with dignity, a fair distribution of opportunities, and a seat at the decision-making tables” – and these principles remain as relevant today.

Finance, climate and technology

The Secretary General recalled that there are only four years left until 2030, while the funding gap Sustainable Development Goals remains huge, and debt servicing is stifling investment in key areas.

He called for a reform of the global financial architecture, emphasizing that it must reflect today's realities, not the "world of 1945." Specifically, he emphasized the need to triple the lending capacity of multilateral development banks, expand access to long-term financing, and ensure developing countries have greater influence in international institutions.

Speaking about climate, the Secretary-General noted that the world is moving towards a temporary excess of 1.5 degrees Celsius and the task is to make this excess "as small as possible, as brief as possible, and as safe as possible."

"The principle of common but differentiated responsibility must apply – but each country must do more," he said.

“Climate justice requires protecting those who have contributed least to this crisis – and who face its harshest consequences,” the UN chief added, calling for massive adaptation funding, contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund, and the mobilization of $1.3 trillion a year for developing countries by 2035.

The Digital Age and the Role of the UN

Antonio Guterres stressed that the digital age must become "an engine of inclusion, not an accelerator of inequality."

In July, the Global Dialogue on artificial intelligence management, which will be preceded by the first report of the Independent Scientific Panel on AI with recommendations for states. The UN Secretary-General also called for the creation of a Global AI Capacity Building Fund and welcomed the participation of the Panel's countries in the global collaboration network in this area.

The Secretary-General also recalled the importance of the UN-80 initiative, which aims to strengthen the UN system and increase its effectiveness in the face of declining resources.

In conclusion, the Secretary-General noted that the international community faces a clear choice: “fragmentation or solutions; division or results; narrow selfishness or a shared determination to build a more just future.”

"The Group of 77 and China have long been the guardians of this resolve," he said, pledging to continue to support developing countries in pursuing justice, equality and the fulfillment of their promises.

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January 14, 2026 UN

The top news of the day at the UN and around the world: a Security Council meeting on the situation in Yemen, an Israeli invasion of an UNRWA medical center, escalating violence in Haiti, and 2025 being among the top three warmest years on record.

The situation in Yemen

Speaking at the UN Security Council on behalf of Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, OCHA spokesman Ramesh Rajasingham warned that the humanitarian crisis in Yemen continues to worsen this year. He stated that more than 18 million people will face acute food shortages as early as next month. Meanwhile, due to funding cuts, millions of Yemenis are not receiving the assistance they need. The OCHA representative also called on the Security Council to secure the release of UN and other agency staff detained in Yemen.

UNRWA Center

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said Israeli security forces invaded the agency's medical center in East Jerusalem and ordered its closure for 30 days, depriving hundreds of Palestinians of access to primary healthcare. All UN symbols were also ordered to be removed. UNRWA spokesman Jonathan Fowler emphasized that the agency's facilities are United Nations premises and are protected by international law.

Violence in Haiti

According to the International Organization for Migration, clashes in Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, have displaced approximately 6,000 people since January 6. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warns that the escalating violence has seriously impacted humanitarian programs. Doctors Without Borders announced the suspension of all medical services in the Bel-Air area. The scale of forced displacement in Haiti reached 1.4 million people last year. By 2026, 6.4 million people—more than half the country's population—will require assistance. The UN and partners have appealed for $880 million for humanitarian operations in Haiti.

Record warming

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has officially confirmed that 2025 entered the top three warmest years Since its inception, global warming has continued: the last 11 years have been the hottest on record, and ocean temperature increases show no signs of slowing. According to an analysis of data from eight independent sources, the average global surface temperature in 2025 was 1.44 degrees Celsius above the 1850–1900 average.

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January 14, 2026 UN

At an informal meeting of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, Annalena Baerbock, President of its 80th session, delivered an impassioned speech in which she warned of unprecedented threats to the global order. She said that 2026 has begun "in a context where happiness in the world is clearly in short supply," from events in Venezuela to tensions in Iran.

Baerbock stated that multilateralism is experiencing a "moment of truth," and the United Nations is under pressure. Nevertheless, she emphasized, the world needs the UN more than ever – to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, protect the rights of girls in Afghanistan, and work to end the war in Ukraine.

"The world needs the UN, but the UN also needs the world."

The General Assembly President called on Member States to demonstrate leadership and more vigorously defend the UN Charter. She emphasized that the system is not collapsing overnight, but is "crumbling piecemeal," recalling the unprecedented event in December, when, for the first time in 30 years, a traditional resolution concerning the allocation of UN emergency humanitarian assistance was withdrawn from the vote.

Baerbock called on countries to create a broad interregional coalition in support of international law and the principles of the Charter. She also invited delegates to symbolically reaffirm their commitment to these principles by signing a commemorative document commemorating the Charter's 80th anniversary.

Compromise should not turn into concessions

According to Baerbock, striving for consensus is important, but it should not lead to the "erosion of the foundations" of the Organization. If unanimity is impossible, then "a strong majority in the General Assembly is not a failure, but a demonstration of resolve."

UN-80 Initiative

A significant portion of her speech was devoted to reform of the United Nations system within the framework of the UN80 initiative. Baerbock noted that decades of accumulating mandates and expanding structures had led to overburdening and duplication of functions. She called for "a careful trimming of the system, with scissors, not a chainsaw."

The President of the General Assembly thanked States for their progress in revising mandates and emphasized the need to eliminate the "heavy burden" of outdated tasks. She also supported the Secretary-General's efforts to achieve profound institutional transformation.

Baerbock pointed to the UN's chronic financial crisis, emphasizing that no reforms will help if states do not pay their dues on time.

Security Council reform and the election of a new Secretary-General

Baerbock emphasized that the UN Security Council also needs to be updated, as its inability to act undermines trust in the entire system. She announced that a series of interviews with candidates for the post of Secretary-General will be held in April and called on countries to nominate qualified candidates, with a particular focus on women.

"History will remember the path we chose."

Concluding her speech, Baerbock emphasized that the current moment is crucial for the future of multilateralism. She called on states to demonstrate integrity and courage: "Citizens are not coming to save multilateralism—they have entrusted it to you."

According to her, the choice of the next Secretary-General, the scale of reforms, and fidelity to the Charter will be the criteria by which the world will assess whether the Organization has met the challenges of the era.

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January 14, 2026 Peace and security

In recent months, Yemen has experienced a series of significant events that have changed key political realities and impacted the security situation, UN Special Representative for the country Hans Grundberg said at a UN Security Council meeting on Wednesday.

Grundberg noted that recent events in southern Yemen demonstrated "how quickly a fragile balance can be upset and how important it is to re-establish the process within a credible political framework." He said de-escalation had been achieved in recent days, but the security situation in certain areas remains volatile.

An integrated political approach

The UN representative emphasized that "the future of the south of the country cannot be determined by one side or by force" and that only Yemenis themselves, including all their diverse views, can find a sustainable solution. He welcomed President Rashad al-Alimi's initiative to convene a dialogue involving southern forces with the support of Saudi Arabia.

The Special Representative emphasized that without a comprehensive approach, “the risk of recurring and destabilizing cycles will remain the country’s permanent trajectory.”

According to Grundberg, Yemenis across the country speak of the same priorities: “service delivery, salaries, freedom of movement, and institutions that serve the people, not factions.”

He also expressed grave concern over the continued detention of UN staff and representatives of other agencies in Sana'a, calling for their immediate release.

The humanitarian situation is worsening

Speaking on behalf of UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, Ramesh Rajasingham, a representative of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, reported that the humanitarian crisis in Yemen had deepened further in early 2026.

According to the rapporteur, more than 18 million people will face acute food insecurity as early as next month. Nearly half of children under five suffer from acute malnutrition. However, due to a lack of funding, only two million of the nearly eight million people in need received assistance last year. More than 2,500 feeding programs were closed.

More than 450 health facilities have already closed, and another 2,300 are at risk of losing funding. Only two-thirds of children are fully vaccinated, and the country is facing the world's largest measles outbreaks and some of the highest rates of polio and cholera.

Nevertheless, humanitarian partners continue to save lives: in 2025, they supported more than 3,000 health facilities and vaccinated millions of children.

In conclusion, the OCHA representative addressed three requests to the Security Council: to immediately secure the release of 73 UN staff members, to increase funding for humanitarian aid, and to maintain Security Council unity on Yemen.

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