Dig deep into the United Nations' history, structure, and functions, unearthing its role in building a world of peace and prosperity for all!
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24 Oct 2023
7 Min Read
Balvinder Kaur Dhaliwal (Herald's Writer), Michelle Lee Shu Ling (Student Editor)
Dig deep into the United Nations' history, structure, and functions, unearthing its role in building a world of peace and prosperity for all!
Born out of the ashes of World War II, the United Nations (UN) is a shining example of international collaboration and diplomacy. In an increasingly complex geopolitical world with diverse cultures and challenges, this organisation is intended to promote peace and prosperity among nations worldwide. The origins of the UN trace back to the League of Nations, the first intergovernmental organisation aimed 'to promote international cooperation and to achieve international peace and security' following World War I. However, when it failed to prevent World War II, it was succeeded by the UN.
In celebration of United Nations Day, we are embarking on a series of articles dedicated to the UN. We begin with this first article, delving into the organisation's history, its structural components, the functions of each division, as well as the lasting impact and notable criticisms it has garnered since its inception — a comprehensive introduction to everything you need to know about the UN!
The UN came into existence on October 24, 1945, emerging as a beacon of hope for resolving international conflicts, such as further world wars, the aftermath of which entails unimaginable destruction and casualties. Its inception was motivated by the desire to foster international cooperation and prevent such global catastrophes from happening again.
The permanent members of the UN, also known as the ‘Big Five’ — comprising the United States, the United Kingdom, the Soviet Union (now Russia), China, and France — had a significant influence on the organisation's development. The UN was established based on the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter, signed in San Francisco by 51 nations. Over time, its membership has expanded, and it currently includes 193 nations.
Brace yourselves because this is where it gets tricky! The UN is a multifaceted organisation with different councils, each of which performs a specific role. Here are the main components of the UN's structure:
All of the UN's Member States are represented in the General Assembly, which serves as its principal legislative body. Every Member State is granted one vote, and a two-thirds majority is needed to decide on significant matters. The General Assembly discusses and adopts resolutions covering a broad range of international topics, including development, human rights, peace and security, and international law.
It is the Security Council's job to keep the world peaceful and secure. Currently, there are 15 members: 10 non-permanent members chosen for two-year terms, and the five permanent members (i.e., the ‘Big Five’) who hold veto power. Veto power allows the permanent members to block any resolution or decision made, no matter the majority’s opinion. The Security Council also has the authority to approve sanctions, peacekeeping operations, and even the use of force to combat threats to global peace and security.
The Secretariat serves as the administrative branch of the UN with the Secretary-General in charge. Its responsibilities include carrying out the decisions made by the Security Council and General Assembly, coordinating the activities of the organisation, and providing administrative support to other UN organisations.
The Economic and Social Council is the main body for executing international development goals, as well as for evaluating policies, engaging in policy discourse, and providing recommendations on economic, social, and environmental issues.
The International Court of Justice is the UN’s principal judicial organ, seated in The Hague, Netherlands. It provides advisory opinions on legal matters referred to by UN bodies and specialised agencies, as well as resolving legal disputes between states. Furthermore, when there are disputes or cases that cannot be peacefully resolved by the Security Council, the Council may recommend parties to refer to the International Court of Justice for disputes involving international law, as authorised in Chapter VI of the UN Charter.
The UN is also home to several specialised organisations that focus on specific fields, including health, education, and economic development. These organisations, such as the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), and the World Bank, work in collaboration with the UN to address global issues.
Now that we are familiar with the structure of the UN, let's take a quick look at some of its functions. To accomplish the goals set forth in the UN Charter, the UN performs a wide range of tasks. Among its principal duties are the following:
Following the destruction of World War II, the UN was established with the singular goal of preserving international peace and security. This is done by taking the lead in preventing conflicts, mediating disputes, and stationing peacekeepers in troubled areas. International peace and security are primarily the responsibility of the UN Security Council along with other UN offices and bodies.
The UN actively defends human rights and monitors abuses worldwide. The UN Charter references ‘human rights’ seven times, underscoring the central importance of promoting and protecting these rights as a tenet of the organisation. Since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights laid the foundation for human rights in international law, the UN has diligently defended those rights through judicial actions and grassroots initiatives.
According to the UN Charter, one of the goals is ‘to achieve international cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character.’ Through organisations like the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the World Food Programme (WFP), and more, the UN offers essential humanitarian relief to those impacted by conflicts, natural disasters, and other emergencies.
In response to Member States' profound realisation of the effects of climate change on the Earth and the importance of improving the lives of people everywhere, the UN has recognised the necessity of implementing a sustainable development model for both current and future generations. As a result, it addresses global environmental issues, such as climate change, through programmes like the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and by introducing its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The goal, as stated in the Preamble of the UN Charter, is ‘to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained.’ Since its inception, the organisation has consistently prioritised the advancement and adherence to international law. These objectives are achieved through courts, tribunals, multilateral treaties, and the Security Council.
The UN has played a significant role in shaping international diplomacy and governance, positively impacting countless lives through development programmes, diplomatic negotiations, conflict prevention, and the global promotion of human rights. However, criticisms are inevitable, including concerns about the limitations of the Security Council's veto power, slow responses to crises, and the need for ongoing reforms to maintain its effectiveness in a rapidly changing world. The question lingers: ‘Why isn't the UN doing more?’ Whether it's the ongoing Russian-Ukraine conflict, the Israel-Palestine situation, or the delay in granting UN membership to Palestine, people wonder why peace remains elusive.
Nonetheless, we cannot deny the UN's contributions to our world. Despite its shortcomings, it remains an indispensable global institution, committed to advancing human rights, fostering development, and ensuring peace and security worldwide. Its complex structure and functions reflect the intricacies of international relations. While it has made significant progress in fulfilling its mission, the UN must continue to adapt and reform to address the evolving challenges of the 21st century. The enduring legacy of the UN lies in its capacity to promote international cooperation and contribute to a more just and peaceful world.
TLMUN Herald is a youth-led, non-profit publication under the Taylor’s Lakeside Model United Nations (TLMUN) Club, dedicated to amplifying the voices of today’s youth. Within TLMUN Herald, we have a committed team of editors, feature writers, marketing associates, and creative directors who work together to publish factual articles.
