Daily Current Affairs : 8-December-2023
Amid the relentless military assaults by Israel on the Gaza Strip, particularly in its southern region, the United Nations Secretary-General has taken a decisive step by invoking Article 99 of the UN Charter. This move is aimed at establishing a ceasefire and addressing the escalating tensions in the region.
About Article 99 of the UN Charter:
The United Nations Charter serves as the foundational document for the international organization, outlining its principles and functions. Here are key aspects related to Article 99:
- Founding Document:
- The UN Charter is the cornerstone of the United Nations, delineating its structure and purpose.
- It grants the UN the authority to intervene in a broad spectrum of global issues.
- International Treaty:
- The Charter is classified as an international treaty, implying that all UN Member States are obligated to adhere to its provisions.
- This underscores the collective commitment to maintaining global peace and security.
- Article 99 Overview:
- Article 99 is a specific provision within the UN Charter that outlines the powers of the Secretary-General.
- According to this article, the Secretary-General is empowered to draw the attention of the Security Council to any situation that, in their opinion, poses a threat to international peace and security.
- Discretionary Power:
- Article 99 is viewed as a discretionary power, affording the Secretary-General flexibility in deciding when to invoke it.
- This discretionary authority enables the Secretary-General to respond promptly to emerging threats and crises.
Important Points:
- About Article 99 of the UN Charter:
- Foundational document of the United Nations.
- Grants UN authority to take action on various global issues.
- International treaty binding UN Member States.
- Key Aspects of Article 99:
- Specific provision in the UN Charter outlining the powers of the Secretary-General.
- Empowers Secretary-General to bring attention to the Security Council regarding situations threatening international peace and security.
- Article 99 viewed as discretionary, allowing flexibility in its application.
- Article 99 Overview:
- Reflects Secretary-General’s authority to act promptly in response to emerging threats.
- Demonstrates UN’s commitment to addressing the Israel-Gaza conflict.
- Highlights the urgent need for a ceasefire to safeguard global peace and security.
Why In News
Amid Israel’s ongoing military attacks on the Gaza Strip, particularly in its southern region, United Nations Secretary-General has invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter in a bid to establish a ceasefire, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic dialogue to address the escalating humanitarian crisis and bring about a lasting resolution to the conflict.
MCQs about UN Secretary-General’s Article 99 Invocation
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What is the primary reason for the United Nations Secretary-General invoking Article 99 in the current context?
A. Routine procedural requirement
B. To address escalating tensions in the Israel-Gaza conflict
C. Celebrating a diplomatic milestone
D. Overseeing a new UN Charter amendment
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Which document serves as the foundational framework for the United Nations?
A. Universal Declaration of Human Rights
B. Geneva Conventions
C. UN Charter
D. Treaty of Versailles
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What does Article 99 of the UN Charter empower the Secretary-General to do?
A. Declare war on member states
B. Conduct peacekeeping missions independently
C. Bring attention to the Security Council on matters threatening international peace and security
D. Veto Security Council resolutions
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Why is Article 99 considered a discretionary power?
A. It is optional for member states to follow its provisions
B. It grants the Secretary-General the flexibility to decide when to invoke it
C. It is only applicable during wartime
D. It requires unanimous approval from the General Assembly
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