Question

Answer in detail

Assess the structure and the activities of the UN.

Answer 1

The United Nations came into existence in the year 1945 to achieve lasting peace among all nations which were inter-dependent. It functions like any government, through its principal organs which are similar to the legislative, executive, and judicial wings of a state.

1. Structure of UN: 
   1. Once-yearly General Assembly. The Assembly addresses issues of interest and conflict.
   2. The Security Council has five permanent members (USA, Britain, France, Russia, China) and ten rotating non-permanent members. All permanent members have the right to veto decisions.
   3. The Secretary-General leads the UN Secretariat. He is elected by the General Assembly based on Security Council recommendations. With his cabinet and officers, he manages the UN.
   4. International Court of Justice: Hague, Holland
   5. The Economic and Social Council coordinates U.N. social and economic activities. Leading economists like Gunnar Myrdal.
2. Activities of the UN:
   1. Human Rights, Refugees, Climate Change, and Gender Equality are key concerns addressed. Decolonisation was a feature of their effort in the 1960s.
   2. The UN peacekeeping force fought in various conflicts worldwide. The Indian army has participated.
   3. According to the UN preamble, its activities encompass human rights and gender equality.