US President Donald Trump unveiled his new 'Board of Peace' at the Davos Economic Forum this week, declaring it a platform to end decades of global suffering and build lasting peace. The initiative, originally conceived during US-led efforts to end the Gaza war, was approved by a UN Security Council resolution but has since expanded into a broader global project. A leaked draft charter shows Trump will serve as lifelong chairman with sweeping powers, including appointing members, creating or dissolving sub-bodies, and naming his successor. Permanent membership reportedly costs $1 billion.

The launch drew mixed international reactions. Poland’s prime minister warned against manipulation, while Hungary’s Viktor Orbán praised Trump’s leadership. The UK, Sweden, and Norway voiced concerns or withheld participation, and a coalition of Muslim-majority nations joined citing hopes for Gaza’s reconstruction—though the leaked charter made no mention of Gaza. France’s Emmanuel Macron faced tariff threats from Trump for hesitating to join, and Slovenia called the move a dangerous interference in global order.

UN officials described the initiative as reflecting the UN Security Council’s failures but cautioned that inclusivity is vital. Secretary-General António Guterres lamented the rise of power politics over rule of law, while observers questioned whether Trump’s board could replace the UN.