If you caught the news from Davos yesterday (January 22, 2026), you know President Donald Trump didn't just show up for the usual WEF talks - he hosted a signing ceremony and officially launched the Board of Peace. Trump himself is Chairman, holding the charter like a trophy in front of world leaders. It's real, it's signed, and it's already sparking big debates about what the future of international peace and cooperation looks like.
This isn't just another think tank. It started tied to Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza - demilitarization, governance reforms, massive rebuilding to turn the region from conflict zone to one of "hope, opportunity, and vitality." But the charter goes further: it's positioned to tackle broader global conflicts, stability, and peacekeeping efforts worldwide. Trump has even suggested it could complement (or compete with) the United Nations in getting things done.
Trump led the ceremony on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum. He was joined by representatives from founding member countries who signed on. The White House called it a "historic" step toward lasting peace in Gaza and beyond. Trump emphasized mobilizing resources, enforcing accountability, and guiding reconstruction—big promises for a region that's seen too much suffering.
Permanent seats come with a steep price tag: reportedly $1 billion contributions. It's an exclusive setup, and Trump says "everyone wants to be a part," but not everyone showed up.
Who's In and Who's Staying Out?A diverse group jumped aboard quickly: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, Egypt, Israel, Hungary, Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, Morocco, Kosovo, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Paraguay, Vietnam, Belarus, and others. Argentina's leadership called it an honor. Some big names like Jared Kushner, Marco Rubio, and Steve Witkoff are on the founding executive board.
But major Western allies? Largely absent. No France, Germany, UK, or most EU heavyweights. Canada got an invite, then had it revoked after public comments from their side - Trump pulled it publicly. Critics point to concerns over the board's wide mandate, potential overlap with the UN, and the mix of members (some calling it too transactional or including authoritarian-leaning states).
Trump insists it's not meant to replace the UN; he says it'll work alongside it. Still, the optics have raised eyebrows: a U.S.-led body with Trump at the helm, charging big for influence, while traditional allies hesitate.
In a time when global institutions feel stuck - vetoes blocking action, endless talks without results.
Trump is betting on a new model: decisive, resource-backed, and led by those willing to pay and commit. Supporters see it as pragmatic progress, especially for Gaza's long-term stability and hope for ordinary people there.
Skeptics worry it fragments the international system further, creates rival power centers, or prioritizes certain interests over universal ones. Africa, for one, seems sidelined - no sub-Saharan invites so far, adding to questions about whose peace this really serves.
But major Western allies? Largely absent. No France, Germany, UK, or most EU heavyweights. Canada got an invite, then had it revoked after public comments from their side - Trump pulled it publicly. Critics point to concerns over the board's wide mandate, potential overlap with the UN, and the mix of members (some calling it too transactional or including authoritarian-leaning states).
Trump insists it's not meant to replace the UN; he says it'll work alongside it. Still, the optics have raised eyebrows: a U.S.-led body with Trump at the helm, charging big for influence, while traditional allies hesitate.
What Does This Mean for the World?
In a time when global institutions feel stuck - vetoes blocking action, endless talks without results.
Trump is betting on a new model: decisive, resource-backed, and led by those willing to pay and commit. Supporters see it as pragmatic progress, especially for Gaza's long-term stability and hope for ordinary people there.
Skeptics worry it fragments the international system further, creates rival power centers, or prioritizes certain interests over universal ones. Africa, for one, seems sidelined - no sub-Saharan invites so far, adding to questions about whose peace this really serves.
Whether this Board delivers real ceasefires, rebuilding, or broader resolutions remains to be seen. It's early days, but the launch itself is a statement: the old ways aren't cutting it, and someone's building a new table.
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