In North Africa, the consequences of a warming planet are no longer a distant threat. They have morphed into a relentless burden on fragile economies and fragile governance systems.

North Africa is undergoing a quiet yet profound economic realignment. The region, traditionally a crossroads of civilizations, is swiftly repositioning itself as a central hub for the next chapter of global industry, fueled by the worldwide demand for critical minerals.

The scale of the devastation in Syria after more than a decade of civil war is almost incomprehensible. The cost of reconstruction is estimated at between $250 and $400 billion.

The UN enters its 81st year expecting to be viewed as a beacon of global governance — but is more like a patient in intensive care. The prognosis, derived from internal assessments and financial autopsies, is dire.