US President Donald Trump is trying to create a “Board of Peace,” but attracting Western allies has been tough. Instead, he has found support from Middle Eastern leaders, a few controversial figures, and even countries with questionable human rights records.
The idea for this board is to settle global conflicts. Trump has invited many nations to join, but some allies are worried. They’re uneasy about his comments suggesting the board could take on a role similar to the United Nations.
Originally, the board aimed to help rebuild Gaza after a major conflict. However, its scope has now widened to include multiple global issues. Interestingly, the draft charter sent to potential members doesn’t even mention Gaza anymore.
Notably, countries like Russia and China received invitations to the board, which includes a hefty $1 billion fee for permanent seats. Other invitees range from European nations to the Pope himself, creating a diverse and contentious mix.
About 35 nations are expected to attend a ceremony at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, signaling possible interest—but not without skepticism.
The board was first brought up as part of a ceasefire plan for Gaza, backed by the UN Security Council last November. This gave it some international standing, with the aim to oversee reconstruction and demilitarization efforts in the region.
Trump is set to chair the board indefinitely, which raises eyebrows. His team, including son-in-law Jared Kushner and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, will form a founding executive board, further entwining their influence.
Countries like the UAE, Egypt, and even Israel have accepted the invitation, despite Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing concerns about some members’ pasts. The board is also attracting leaders like Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus, sometimes called Europe’s last dictator.
However, not everyone is on board. Countries like France and Norway have hesitated, questioning how the board would work with existing UN structures. Even Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced discomfort at the idea of collaborating with Russia, given the ongoing conflict.
Critics worry the board could undermine the UN, which has been a cornerstone of global diplomacy for decades. Concerns are mounting about accountability and possible corruption regarding the proposed funding.
Trump’s notion that the Board of Peace might replace the UN has intensified debates. Some diplomats and officials reaffirm that the UN is essential and won’t be replaced by this new entity. The UN’s Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, made it clear: “The United Nations isn’t going anywhere.”
Overall, Trump’s bold move to reshape international relations through this board showcases both ambition and controversy, mirroring historical efforts to establish peace amid conflict, often fraught with political complexities and varying global interests.
