The UN, EU and NATO Flashcards
What countries make up the permanent members of the UN security council?
Britain, France, USA, Russia, China
How many members of the UN security council are there?
15
When was the UN set up?
1945, 50 countries signed the original charter. Including the US and UK
What is the main aim of the UN?
To maintain international peace and security.
Give an example of the UKs contribution within the UN
- In 2013 after 10 years of FCO campaigning and negotiation with UK staff. The Arms Trade Treaty was signed. Is an attempt to regulate the international trade of conventional weapons.
- In 2022 the UK said it would give billions less to foreign aid international organisations, like the UN
What do the UK political parties think about the UN?
There is a cross party concencus that we should be in the UN
Does the UN have a military?
The UN can impose military and non-military sanctions in the case of non-compliance.
When was the EU originally formed?
1958, The European Economic Communities was formed. The UK was not a founding member.
Formed under The Rome Treaty
When/What was the Maastricht treaty?
1993, EEC becomes the EU.
The Treaty established a common foreign and security policy
The Treaty developed close cooperation on justice and home affairs to ensure the safety and security of European citizens.
Why was the EU formed?
After WW2 as a way to create peace amongst Europe
How many times did the UK attempt to join the EEC?
3, 1963 and 1967 attempts were both vetoed by the French President, Charles de Gaulle.
The UK officially joined the EEC in 1973
Give an example of financial contributions made by the UK to the EU
In 2018, the UK contributed £15.5 billion to the EU and their overall aim was to contribute 2% of their annual GDP
Why did the UK leave the EU?
in 2016 David Cameron held a referendum to decide whether the UK should stay in the EU. The UK voted leave 51.89%.
Why was NATO formed?
Started the the United States and Canada to provide collective security against the Soviet Union
How significant is the UK’s involvement in NATO?
The UK provides 12-14% of total NATO capability. Roughly 2.1 % of their GDP, or £138 million a year.
Give examples of how the UK is involved with NATO?
- The UK has over a thousand military personnel deployed with NATO around the world
- The UK takes a lead role in cyber-welfare in NATO
-In November 2022, UK forces were doubled in Estonia to enhance NATO’s power.
What did the European Communities Act of 1972 do?
Provided a legal basis for the UKs membership in the European Communities. It incorporated EU law into domestic law.
Which act facilitated the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union ?
European Union (withdrawal) Act 2018
What Treaty founded the UN?
The United Nations Charter
What Treaty founded NATO?
North Atlantic Treaty 1949
What did the Lisbon Treaty do?
Amends the Treaties establishing the European Union and the European Community . Outlines the framework and decision making process of the EU and contains provisions related to areas such as fundamental rights, justice and home affairs.
What is the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear weapons?
The UK is a signatory on the NPT, which aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament.
