Mme Fatoumata DABO
Coalition Nationale Guinéenne pour l’Education Pour Tous (CNG/EPT)

The Global Positioning of the ARTICLE 26 Project in an Era of Weakening International Law and Anti-Human Dynamics

Why Consider Relocating the Headquarters of the United Nations?

The question of a possible relocation of the headquarters of the United Nations (UN), currently located in New York City, is resurfacing in an international context marked by the weakening of multilateralism, the rise of power politics, and the increasing questioning of international legal norms.

This reflection is not merely geographical; it raises fundamental questions about global governance, the balance of power, and the very credibility of the multilateral system.

Political Reasons

1. a) The issue of geopolitical neutrality

The United States, as the host country, exercises indirect but real control over access to its territory. Although the headquarters agreement guarantees diplomatic facilities, visa restrictions imposed on certain representatives of sanctioned or politically sensitive states have drawn criticism.

In a context where trust between major powers is eroding, the perception of institutional dependence on a single state may weaken the UN’s image of impartiality.

1. b) The emergence of a multipolar world

Since 1945, the balance of power has significantly evolved. Asia now accounts for a major share of global economic growth, Africa is the youngest continent, and Latin America is strengthening its collective diplomatic influence.

Maintaining the headquarters exclusively in the Western sphere may be seen as a reflection of a post–World War II international order. Relocating it to another region would send a strong signal of strategic rebalancing and recognition of the new multipolar world.

1. c) The crisis of multilateralism

Repeated deadlocks in the Security Council, paralysis in the face of major conflicts, and the strategic use of veto power contribute to a perception of institutional imbalance. In this context, relocation could be presented as a symbolic reform aimed at restoring legitimacy to the system.

2. Symbolic Reasons
3. a) Reaffirming the universality of global governance

The UN is meant to embody universality and the sovereign equality of states. However, its location may be perceived as tied to a specific geopolitical sphere.

Moving the headquarters to a country in the Global South—Africa, Asia, or Latin America—could strengthen the sense of inclusion among states historically marginalized in major international decisions.

1. b) Adapting the institution to contemporary realities

The international system of 2026 is no longer that of 1945. Global challenges (climate change, migration, pandemics, cybersecurity, inequality) require more collaborative and representative governance. Relocation could symbolize a transition toward a reformed and modernized UN.

3. Practical and Strategic Reasons
4. a) Operating costs

The cost of living and infrastructure in New York is particularly high (real estate, security, administrative costs, logistics). Relocating to a city with lower operational costs could improve long-term budget efficiency.

1. b) Infrastructure modernization

A new headquarters could be designed according to advanced environmental standards (energy-positive buildings, carbon neutrality, cutting-edge digital infrastructure), aligning the UN’s operations with its climate commitments.

1. c) Strategic decentralization

Some advocate not for a single relocation but for a multipolar model with several strengthened institutional hubs (Africa, Asia, Latin America), bringing global governance closer to regional realities.

What Would Be the Impacts of Such a Decision?

Potential Positive Impacts

1. Better global representation
   Establishing the headquarters in a Global South country could reinforce perceptions of fairness and restore some trust in multilateralism.
2. Enhanced neutrality
   A country known for diplomatic neutrality, such as Switzerland, could provide a more balanced environment and reduce suspicions of political influence.
3. A lever for institutional reform
   Relocation could be part of a broader reform package, including Security Council reform, improved financing mechanisms, and greater transparency.
4. Economic and diplomatic benefits
   The host country would benefit from increased investment, job creation, infrastructure development, and enhanced diplomatic influence.

Potential Negative Impacts

1. Significant financial cost
   Relocation logistics, construction of a new headquarters, and staff compensation could cost several billion dollars, at a time when UN funding is already fragile.
2. Temporary institutional instability
   The transition could disrupt the work of the General Assembly, Security Council, and specialized agencies, slowing decision-making processes.
3. Major diplomatic tensions
   As one of the main financial contributors, the United States might reduce its financial or political support, further weakening the organization.
4. Human and administrative impact
   Thousands of international civil servants would be affected. Some may refuse relocation, leading to a loss of expertise and a temporary decline in institutional capacity.

Conclusion

Relocating the headquarters of the United Nations would be a major political act, reflecting the desire to adapt the international order to contemporary geopolitical changes.

However, the real issue goes beyond geography: the credibility of multilateralism depends less on location than on the willingness of member states to uphold international law, reform governance mechanisms, and prioritize cooperation over confrontation.

Thus, relocation could be a powerful symbol of transformation. But without deep structural reforms—particularly regarding governance, financing, and the use of veto power—it risks remaining a symbolic gesture with limited impact.

In the short to medium term, a full relocation remains unlikely. However, a shift toward a more multipolar and inclusive institutional model appears to be a more realistic and strategically sustainable path.