A coalition of predominantly authoritarian leaders is set to convene in Washington for the inaugural session of Donald Trump’s newly formed Board of Peace. This initiative aims to reshape the future of Gaza following its devastation, but critics argue that it functions as an alternative to the United Nations, effectively turning international diplomacy into a “pay-to-play” scenario dominated by Trump.
Participation details remain uncertain as over 20 nations make up the Board of Peace, with many leaders sending substitutes instead of attending themselves. Among the founding members represented are nations with poor track records on political rights and civil liberties, raising concerns over the legitimacy and intent behind the gathering.
Among the attendees is Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, whose government has been criticized for severe crackdowns on civil liberties and human rights since President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi rose to power in a 2013 coup. Another notable participant is Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, representing a regime that has faced allegations of suppressing political opposition and media freedoms under President Erdoğan.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar will also attend, although the report notes the stark distinction between the freedoms available to Israeli citizens and the grave restrictions imposed on Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. This illustrates the complexities surrounding issues of freedom and governance in the region.
From Asia, leaders such as Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, who succeeded former leader Hun Sen in what critics describe as an undemocratic power transfer, and Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto, who has committed to sending troops for humanitarian aid in Gaza, highlight the region’s diverse political landscapes. Countries like Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan are represented, yet all face significant challenges regarding democratic freedoms and governance.
In Europe, figures like Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has garnered support for his strong nationalist policies, reflect a mix of influences within the coalition. Additionally, Kosovo’s first female president, Vjosa Osmani, anchors the European contingent as a founding member striving for progress amid challenges of corruption.
Critics fear that the Board of Peace’s structure could undermine established international frameworks like the United Nations, while supporters see it as a potential avenue for addressing longstanding conflicts in Gaza and beyond. Despite the diverse backgrounds of its members, the overarching question remains whether this coalition can genuinely advance peace or serve merely as an extension of Trump’s diplomatic dealings with authoritarian regimes.