UN Projects Slower Global Growth as Energy Shock Raises Inflation Risks
On Sept. 22, 2026, UN DESA projected 2.6% global growth in 2026 and 2.9% in 2027, citing energy shocks, geopolitical tensions and tighter fiscal conditions as risks.
UNITED NATIONS,ECONOMY
Global N Press
9/22/20261 min read
On September 22, 2026, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs projected global economic growth of 2.6% in 2026 and 2.9% in 2027, warning that a renewed energy shock, geopolitical tensions and tighter fiscal conditions were weighing on the outlook. In its World Economic Situation and Prospects 2026 September Update, the UN said growth remained below the pre-pandemic pace of 3.2%, while Brent crude had risen about 40% since February to around $100 a barrel. Higher energy costs have revived inflation pressures and complicated monetary policy, with some central banks delaying rate cuts or tightening policy further.
The report also said elevated government bond yields were raising borrowing costs and limiting room for public investment and social spending. At the same time, strong demand for AI-related technologies was supporting investment, trade and industrial activity, while global merchandise trade expanded 5.4% in the first five months of 2026. Developing economies remained particularly exposed because high financing costs, limited access to capital and constrained fiscal space leave them less able to absorb further shocks.
