U.S. President Donald Trump has formally launched an international initiative called the “Board of Peace” at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, with the stated aim of promoting peace and stability — beginning with the war-torn Gaza Strip — and potentially expanding to other global conflicts. The move has been met with both diplomatic interest and sharp criticism. (The White House)

In a ceremony attended by leaders from multiple countries, Trump signed the founding charter of the Board of Peace, describing it as a unique and powerful multilateral body designed “to open a path to hope and dignity for people affected by conflict.” The board emerges as part of Phase Two of the U.S. strategy to implement a ceasefire and reconstruction process in Gaza following years of violent conflict. (The White House)

However, major Western allies have reacted with caution or outright refusal to participate. Canada was initially invited to join but saw its invitation revoked after tensions between President Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney escalated during the forum. Rights advocates welcomed Canada’s exclusion, arguing the board’s framework undermined Palestinian self-determination. (CBS News)

Critics also argue that the Board of Peace risks undermining the established United Nations system and global norms of multilateral cooperation. Some human rights and diplomatic observers have called the initiative a “pay-to-play club” rather than a credible peace-building mechanism, pointing to concerns about its structure, mandate, and leadership. (The Independent)

At Davos, Poland’s president and other leaders showed support for the new initiative, but key European states have so far declined to formally join. Romanian officials even suggested their country should consider paying the $1 billion fee proposed for permanent board membership — a controversial proposal linked to the board’s governance model. (Polskie Radio online)

The Board’s focus remains on reconstruction and political transition in Gaza, but its long-term role and legitimacy — particularly relative to the United Nations — are likely to remain central debates among world powers in the coming months.