5. The United Nations

Question 1

Six principal organs of the United Nations

Answer 1

1. GA
2. Security Council
3. ECOSOC
4. Trusteeship council
5. ICJ
6. Secritariat

Question 2

Foundational principles established in the Charter of the United Nations

Answer 2

Sovereign Equality: All UN members are equal in rights and obligations.
Good Faith Obligations: Members must honor their commitments under the Charter.
Peaceful Dispute Resolution: Settle disputes without endangering peace or justice.
No Use of Force: Refrain from threatening or using force against another state’s sovereignty.
Support for UN Actions: Assist the UN in its actions and avoid aiding states under UN sanctions.
Obligation of Non-Members: Non-UN members should align with UN principles to maintain peace.
Non-Intervention: The UN cannot interfere in domestic matters, except under Chapter VII enforcement.

Question 3

UN Charter as a constitution for the international system

Answer 3

The UN Charter is often referred to as a “constitution for the international system” because it establishes the foundational principles and legal framework for modern international relations, much like a constitution does for a state.

Question 4

Why UN is not a constitution of the international system

Answer 4

Lacks sovereignty over states.
Membership is voluntary.
Limited enforcement powers.
Not a unified legal system or supreme over all international laws.

Question 5

General Assembly

Answer 5

• Platform for debate about any matters within present charter (art. 10 UNC)
• Can only make recommendations (UNC art. 10)
• Setting UN budget. (art. 17)
• Includes all member states.
• One vote each state.
• Makes pressure on States wanting to look good in the global picture.
  *Seating arrengement in GA assembly hall. - They draw lots, thereafter alphabetic order.
• Voting 2/3 (Important quesitions)
  More than half majority, other questions.

Question 6

Security Council differences from the GA

Answer 6

5 P 10 E
2 years term
Decisions are binding
Under art. 41 and 42.
9 Votes (no veto)

Question 7

Alternative UNSC

Answer 7

Ukraine critizised UNSC:
“failure to prevent and respond effectively to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and alleged war crimes” - flaw of veto power
reform of the UN system, specifically the Security Council

No Permanent member states
Permanent member states more representative

Question 8

Secretary General

Answer 8

António Guterres
Chief administrative officer of the Organization.
Recommended by the security council
Appointed by GA
Bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security.