HAMILTON, Canada

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday warned that global conflicts are becoming more complex, while UN peace operations are "struggling" to respond effectively.

"Wars are becoming more complex and more deadly. They last longer, and are more enmeshed in global and regional dynamics. Negotiated settlements have been harder to achieve," Guterres told the UN Security Council during a session on ensuring adaptability in UN peace operations.

He emphasized that peace operations remain a critical tool for maintaining international peace and security.

"These operations comprise both peacekeeping operations and special political missions. Their work ranges from early warning to preventive diplomacy… From peacemaking to verifying peace agreements to protecting civilians… From negotiating ceasefires to helping parties implement them on the ground… To electoral support and observer missions," he said.

Noting that these missions face significant obstacles in fulfilling their mandates, Guterres said: "Peace operations face serious barriers that demand new approaches."

He pointed to various transnational threats that complicate peace efforts, and said: "Terror and extremist groups, organized crime, the weaponization of new technologies, and the effects of climate change are all testing our capacities to respond."

Guterres also cautioned that international stability is deteriorating amid growing divisions.

"The bilateral and multilateral arrangements that — for decades — have managed tensions and maintained stability are eroding. Violations of international law, human rights and the UN Charter are rampant — seemingly without consequence. Trust is in short supply among — and within — countries and regions," he said.

"Meanwhile, our peace responses are struggling," he said.

The UN chief noted that a review of all peace operations is underway as part of the Pact for the Future, aiming to adapt them to today’s realities.

He urged the Security Council to set aside differences and strengthen support for peace operations.