28-October-2024-Editorial

INDIA AND THE UNITED NATIONS: A FOCUS ON UN DAY

United Nations Day is celebrated on October 24th each year to commemorate the establishment of the UN Charter in 1945.

This day highlights the UN’s objectives and achievements, reminding the world of the importance of international cooperation in promoting peace and security.

What is the UN Charter?

Background

• The UN Charter was signed on June 26, 1945, in San Francisco and came into effect on October 24, 1945.
• India ratified the Charter on October 30, 1945, as one of its founding members.
• The UN replaced the League of Nations, which was formed after World War I to foster international collaboration.

About the UN Charter

• It serves as the core document that outlines the UN’s structure and purpose.
• Member states are legally bound by its principles, which include equal rights for all nations and a prohibition on the use of force.
• The Charter has been amended three times: in 1963, 1965, and 1973.

Significance

• The UN plays a vital role in maintaining global peace, providing humanitarian aid, protecting human rights, and upholding international law.
• It has been instrumental in promoting international cooperation and development for over 75 years.

Main Organs of the UN

General Assembly (UNGA)

• The primary policy-making body of the UN with representation from all 193 member states, each having one vote.
• Facilitates multilateral discussions on various global issues.

Security Council (UNSC)

• Comprises 15 members: five permanent (China, France, Russia, UK, US) and ten non-permanent members serving two-year terms.
• India has been a non-permanent member eight times.

Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

• Consists of 54 members elected by the UNGA.
• Focuses on economic, social, and environmental policy discussions and recommendations.

International Court of Justice (ICJ)

• The only court that resolves disputes between states.
• Handles “contentious cases” and provides advisory opinions on legal questions.

Secretariat

• Led by the Secretary-General, who is appointed by the UNGA based on Security Council recommendations.
• Acts as the UN’s administrative arm.

Challenges Facing the UN

• Power Imbalances: The influence of wealthy nations can hinder impartiality and effective action on global issues.
• Security Issues: The UN must address modern threats like terrorism and health crises while focusing on traditional security challenges.
• Peacekeeping Efforts: Internal conflicts pose challenges to peacekeeping, often compromising UN neutrality.
• Human Rights: Establishing national human rights systems, especially in post-conflict areas, is crucial for global protection.
• Financial Issues: Delays in member contributions can affect the UN’s operational capacity and effectiveness.

Proposals for UN Reform

Expanding Membership

• Increasing the number of permanent members of the Security Council to include underrepresented regions like Africa.
• Addressing veto powers to enhance democratic representation.

Improving Efficiency

• Streamlining administrative processes to reduce bureaucracy and enhance operational efficiency.

India’s Role

• India is committed to global peace and development through participation in peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.
• The country seeks a permanent seat on the Security Council to make it more representative and responsive to modern challenges.

Conclusion

The UN’s role in promoting peace and development remains critical. By addressing its challenges and implementing proposed reforms, the UN can enhance its effectiveness in dealing with contemporary global issues. India’s active participation in this process underscores its commitment to fostering international cooperation and peace.