0 Comments

Introduction:

Established on October 24, 1945, the United Nations (UN) emerged from the aftermath of World War II with a primary objective of fostering global peace and preventing future conflicts.

Body:

Evolution of the United Nations:

  • Coined by President Roosevelt in 1941, the term ‘United Nations’ identified the allied nations against the Axis powers during World War II.
    In 1942, 26 allied nations signed the Declaration of the United Nations, outlining the war objectives.
  • Despite being under British colonial rule, India, as an ally, recognized the significance of UN membership for ensuring international peace.

Formation of the United Nations:

  • Ratified on October 24, 1945, by 51 nations, including five permanent members and 46 signatories.
  • The first General Assembly meeting occurred on January 10, 1946.

Achievements of the United Nations:

  • The UN’s broadened focus includes global concerns such as health, the environment, and women’s empowerment.
  • In 1946, a resolution committed to the abolition of nuclear weapons.
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) was established in 1948 to address communicable diseases, playing a crucial role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The creation of the High Commissioner for Refugees in 1950 assisted millions displaced by World War II.
  • In 2002, the UN established a criminal court to prosecute war crimes, genocide, and atrocities.

Failures and Criticisms of the United Nations:

  • Criticisms include the failure to prevent the Rwandan genocide in 1994 and allegations of sexual assault during UN peacekeeping operations in the Republic of Congo, Cambodia, and Haiti.
  • The UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan faced challenges in resolving the civil conflict that erupted in 2013.

Conclusion:

In 2020, a proclamation during a high-level UN General Assembly meeting marked the 75th anniversary, emphasizing the next decade as the “decade of action and delivery for sustainable development.”
Acknowledging both achievements and criticisms, the United Nations stands at a crucial juncture, with aspirations for positive global impact in the years to come.

Legacy Editor Changed status to publish December 2, 2023