The UN - On the Ground in Wars and Disasters, the UN Plays Vital Role : NY Times

As the UN Security Council struggles with divisions paralyzing conflict response, UN relief agencies mount vital operations saving lives from Ukraine to Syria to Gaza. Despite failure realizing founders' lofty vision of preventing war, the UN has evolved into an indispensable global aid body.

With staff exceeding 125,000 across multiple groups, the UN provided Ukraine cash, housing; earthquake relief to Syria; feeds 15 million Afghan kids. But the immense scale requires billions in funding often lacking.

In Gaza, UNRWA shelters 30,000 displaced people in dire conditions. 130 staffers killed shows the dangers. While critics contend the bureaucracy is inefficient, supporters say if the UN didn't exist, it would have to be invented.

Peacekeeping is declining after scandals as superpower tensions block Council action. But the UN retains unique capacity and neutrality to assist crisis victims when political paths fail. Though unable to stop conflicts, humanitarian aid remains essential with no alternative.

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