Hindu Editorial Analysis : 29-February-2024

Recently, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) expressed concern about the lack of unity among members of the UN Security Council (UNSC). He noted that this disunity has seriously weakened the authority of the council, especially at the Human Rights Council.

About the United Nations

Founded in 1945, the UN was created to prevent global conflicts like World War II. It aims to uphold the sovereign equality of all nations and promote collective security. The UN’s mission includes:

  • Maintaining international peace and security
  • Developing friendly relations among nations
  • Achieving international cooperation
  • Harmonizing the actions of nations

Challenges Facing the UN

Changing Global Dynamics

The global order is changing rapidly. Issues such as nationalism and protectionism are rising, threatening international cooperation. Although the UN system remains crucial, the events of the 2020s challenge its effectiveness.

Imbalance in the Security Council

The UNSC consists of five permanent members, chosen because they won World War II: the US, UK, France, Russia, and China. This setup does not represent today’s world, as:

  • No permanent member represents Africa, Australia, or South America.
  • Important nations like Brazil, India, Germany, and Japan have been ignored.
Power Structures and Representation

The UN’s governing structures still reflect historical power dynamics. For instance:

  • The World Bank is traditionally led by an American citizen.
  • Europe nominates the head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

This imbalance is evident in voting rights, where:

  • The U.S. holds 16.5% of votes, while other nations have much less, limiting their influence.
Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Crises

The UN often struggles with peacekeeping due to:

  • Political disagreements among member states.
  • Limited resources.

Conflicts in places like Sudan, Syria, and Myanmar often go unresolved. Additionally, the UN faces significant logistical challenges in responding to humanitarian crises caused by wars or natural disasters.

India’s Role in UN Reforms

India has been a strong advocate for UN reforms, especially in the Security Council. India’s efforts focus on:

  • Promoting equity in representation.
  • Supporting the aspirations of developing countries.

India’s history of fighting against colonialism and apartheid has positioned it as a leader in advocating for change within the UN system.

Feasibility of Reforms

Reforming the UN poses challenges. The current structure favors existing permanent members, making it difficult for emerging powers to gain representation. Moreover, amending the UN Charter requires a two-thirds majority, which complicates the process.

Why In News

Recently, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) remarked that the ‘lack of unity’ among UNSC members had ‘perhaps fatally undermined its authority’ at the Human Rights Council, suggesting that this disunity not only impacts the council’s effectiveness but also erodes global confidence in the UN’s ability to uphold human rights.

MCQs about The United Nations and Its Challenges

  1. What was the primary reason cited by the Secretary-General of the UN for the undermining of the Security Council’s authority?
    A. Lack of funding for peacekeeping missions
    B. Lack of unity among UNSC members
    C. Ineffective humanitarian responses
    D. Insufficient representation from developing countries
    Correct Answer: B. Lack of unity among UNSC members
    Explanation: The Secretary-General pointed out that disunity among UNSC members has significantly weakened its authority, especially in the context of the Human Rights Council.
  2. Which countries are the permanent members of the UN Security Council, as established after World War II?
    A. Brazil, India, Germany, Japan
    B. The US, UK, France, Russia, and China
    C. Australia, South Africa, Canada, Italy
    D. India, Japan, Canada, South Korea
    Correct Answer: B. The US, UK, France, Russia, and China
    Explanation: These five countries were designated as permanent members of the Security Council due to their status as winners of World War II, reflecting the historical power dynamics of that time.
  3. What challenge does the UN face in responding to humanitarian crises?
    A. Lack of international treaties
    B. Political disagreements among member states
    C. Overwhelming support from all nations
    D. Excess funding and resources
    Correct Answer: B. Political disagreements among member states
    Explanation: The UN’s efforts to address humanitarian crises are often hindered by political conflicts among member states, which can delay or obstruct effective action.
  4. Why is India’s role significant in the context of UN reforms?
    A. It has the largest economy in the world.
    B. It has been a consistent advocate for equitable representation.
    C. It controls a significant percentage of UN funding.
    D. It is the only country advocating for peacekeeping missions.
    Correct Answer: B. It has been a consistent advocate for equitable representation.
    Explanation: India has actively pushed for reforms in the UN, particularly in the Security Council, emphasizing the need for equity and better representation of developing countries.

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