United Nations (UNO)
1. Background
The United Nations Organization (UNO) was founded at the end of World War II. The widespread destruction, human loss, and global crises during World War II (1939–1945) convinced the world that a global institution was needed to maintain peace and resolve international disputes.
2. The Failed League of Nations
The “League of Nations” was established in 1919 after the First World War, but it failed to prevent the Second World War. Due to its failure, the need for a stronger and more effective global organization was deeply felt.
3. Establishment of the United Nations
The United Nations was officially established on 24 October 1945. Earlier, on 26 June 1945, 50 countries signed the United Nations Charter (its constitution) in San Francisco, USA. When the charter was ratified by the required number of countries on 24 October 1945, the United Nations formally came into existence.
4. Objectives of the UNO
Main Objectives
- Maintaining international peace and security.
- Promoting friendly relations among nations.
- Solving economic, social, cultural, and humanitarian problems.
- Promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms.
5. Main Organs of the United Nations
The UNO has six principal organs:
- General Assembly
- Security Council
- Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
- International Court of Justice
- Secretariat
- Trusteeship Council (currently inactive)
6. Headquarters
The headquarters of the United Nations is located in New York City, United States.
7. Current Members
As of 2025, the United Nations has 193 member countries. Almost all independent nations of the world are members.
8. India and the United Nations
India is a founding member of the United Nations. It has always played an important role in UN peacekeeping missions, development initiatives, humanitarian work, and international cooperation.
9. Conclusion
The United Nations was established to strengthen peace, security, and cooperation across the world. Even today, it plays a vital role in addressing global issues such as climate change, poverty, terrorism, human rights, and peacebuilding.
United Nations Day is celebrated every year on 24 October.
United Nations (UNO) – Extended Background
1. Hidden in the Horrors of World War II
The origins of the United Nations (UNO) lie in the devastation of the Second World War. This war, fought between 1939 and 1945, was the most destructive conflict in history, causing millions of deaths and unimaginable destruction across nations. It became evident that without a strong and effective international organization to maintain peace, the world could face even more catastrophic wars in the future.
2. The League of Nations: Lessons from Failure
The League of Nations was established in 1919 after the First World War (1914–1918). Although founded with noble intentions, it completely failed to prevent the Second World War. Learning from this failure, world powers realized the need for a new and more efficient global institution.
3. Steps Toward the Creation of the UNO
In 1941, during World War II, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill issued the “Atlantic Charter,” envisioning an organization capable of ensuring global peace and security. This vision moved forward through the “Dumbarton Oaks Conference” in 1944 and the “San Francisco Conference” in 1945.
4. The Birth of the United Nations
Finally, on 24 October 1945, once enough countries ratified the UN Charter, the United Nations formally came into existence. Thus, the establishment of the UNO was a collective global effort to protect humanity from war, violence, and destruction.
The Failed League of Nations of the Twentieth Century
The League of Nations was established on 10 January 1920 after the First World War (1914–1918). Its purpose was to maintain international peace and prevent future wars. The organization came into existence under the Treaty of Versailles, largely due to the efforts of U.S. President Woodrow Wilson.
Although it was founded with the noble aim of preserving global peace, the League failed due to several major reasons:
1. Lack of Powers
The League of Nations had no standing army and could not enforce its decisions. It depended entirely on the cooperation and goodwill of member states, which often proved insufficient.
2. Absence of the United States
Despite being the main initiator, the United States never joined the League. This significantly weakened its legitimacy, authority, and global influence.
3. Failure to Take Decisive Action
When Japan invaded Manchuria (1931), Italy attacked Ethiopia (1935), and Germany pursued aggressive military expansion in the 1930s, the League failed to take strong and effective action. This encouraged further aggression.
4. Conflicting National Interests
Member countries often prioritized their national interests over collective security. This lack of unity prevented the League from acting as a strong, cohesive international body.
5. Outbreak of the Second World War
The League’s biggest failure was its inability to prevent the Second World War in 1939. This demonstrated its complete ineffectiveness in maintaining global peace.
Conclusion
The failure of the League of Nations made it clear that the world required a stronger, more organized, and more effective international institution capable of maintaining peace. Learning from this failure, the United Nations (UNO) was established in 1945.
Establishment of the United Nations
The United Nations was established on 24 October 1945, soon after the end of the Second World War. Its main objective was to promote peace, security, and cooperation in the world so that future global wars and conflicts could be prevented.
The Process of Establishment
(i) Atlantic Charter – 1941
In August 1941, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill signed the Atlantic Charter. It envisioned the creation of an international organization that would promote global cooperation and peace among nations.
(ii) Declaration of the United Nations – 1942
On 1 January 1942, 26 countries signed the Declaration of the United Nations. They pledged to fight unitedly against Nazi Germany and the Axis powers and expressed their commitment toward forming a future international peace-building organization.
(iii) Dumbarton Oaks Conference – 1944
In 1944, representatives of the United States, Britain, China, and the Soviet Union met at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington, D.C. Here, the basic structure, objectives, and functioning of the future United Nations were drafted.
(iv) San Francisco Conference – 1945
From 25 April to 26 June 1945, representatives of 50 countries met in San Francisco, USA, to discuss and finalize the United Nations Charter. The Charter was officially signed on 26 June 1945.
(v) Formal Establishment – 24 October 1945
The United Nations was formally established on 24 October 1945 when the Charter was ratified by 51 countries, including all the major powers required for ratification—particularly the five permanent members of the Security Council: the United States, Russia (then USSR), Britain, France, and China.
This day is celebrated annually as “United Nations Day”.
Initial Members
At the time of its establishment, the United Nations had 51 member countries. India was also one of the prominent founding members of the organization.
In Short
The United Nations was founded after the worst tragedy in human history—the Second World War—with the primary goal of protecting future generations from the horrors of war. Even today, the organization continues to work actively for global peace, development, and international cooperation.
Objectives of the United Nations
The primary purpose of establishing the United Nations was to ensure lasting peace, security, and cooperation across the world. The UN Charter clearly defines these objectives. They are as follows:
(i) Maintenance of International Peace and Security
The most important objective of the United Nations is to prevent conflicts between member states, avoid wars, and maintain global peace. For this, the UN uses methods such as mediation, negotiation, peacekeeping forces, and economic sanctions.
(ii) Promotion of Friendly Relations Among Countries
The UN encourages all nations to build friendly relations based on sovereignty, equality, and mutual respect. It promotes non-discrimination on the basis of race, caste, religion, or language.
(iii) Solving Economic, Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Problems
The United Nations works to address global challenges such as poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, gender inequality, and environmental crises. It operates through various specialized agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO, UNICEF, and UNDP.
(iv) Promotion and Protection of Human Rights
The UN works to safeguard human rights across the world. It promotes rights such as liberty, equality, freedom of expression, and religious freedom.
(v) Promoting International Cooperation
The United Nations provides a common platform for countries to cooperate and coordinate, ensuring collective solutions to global issues.
(vi) Upholding Justice and Respect for International Law
The UN aims to ensure that international laws are respected worldwide. It encourages member nations to resolve disputes through peaceful means.
Conclusion
These objectives form the foundation of global peace, justice, and development. They help create an international environment where all nations and individuals can live with dignity, equality, and security.
Principal Organs of the United Nations
To function effectively, the United Nations is structured into six main organs. Each organ plays a unique role in fulfilling the UN’s objectives. Their powers, functions, and structure are defined in the UN Charter.
(i) General Assembly
- The main discussion forum of the United Nations.
- All member countries have equal representation—each country has one vote.
- Responsible for approving the budget, admitting new members, and discussing global issues.
- The General Assembly meets every year in September at the UN Headquarters in New York.
(ii) Security Council
- The most powerful organ of the United Nations, responsible for maintaining international peace and security.
- Consists of 15 members:
- 5 Permanent Members: USA, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom — all with veto power.
- 10 Non-Permanent Members: Elected for two-year terms.
- Can deploy peacekeeping forces, impose sanctions, or authorize military action.
(iii) Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
- Coordinates global economic, social, cultural, health, education, and human rights activities.
- Oversees specialized agencies like WHO, UNESCO, UNICEF, and UNDP.
- Composed of 54 member countries elected by the General Assembly for three-year terms.
(iv) International Court of Justice (ICJ)
- Located in The Hague, Netherlands.
- Settles legal disputes between nations based on international law.
- Comprises 15 judges elected for nine-year terms by the General Assembly and Security Council.
- Only nations, not individuals, can bring cases before the ICJ.
(v) Secretariat
- The administrative body of the United Nations, responsible for coordinating the work of all UN organs.
- Led by the United Nations Secretary-General.
- Term of the Secretary-General: Five years, appointed by the General Assembly.
- Current Secretary-General (as of 2025): Antonio Guterres.
(vi) Trusteeship Council
- Originally created to help transition trust territories into independent and self-governing nations.
- Since all trust territories have gained independence, the Council is currently inactive.
- The last official meeting of this organ was held in 1994.
Conclusion
These six principal organs work together to achieve the goals of global peace, development, justice, and cooperation. Their collective efforts make the United Nations one of the most influential international organizations in the world.
United Nations General Assembly
The United Nations General Assembly is the principal and most representative organ of the United Nations. It is often regarded as the “democratic parliament” of the UN because all member states have equal voting rights, irrespective of their size, population, or economic status.
Key Features
1. Membership
All member countries of the United Nations are part of the General Assembly. Each member state has one vote, ensuring equal representation for all nations.
2. Sessions
The regular annual session of the General Assembly is held every year in September at the UN Headquarters in New York. In addition, special sessions may be convened when necessary.
3. President
The President of the General Assembly is elected every year. The President guides and controls the proceedings of the sessions and gives member representatives the opportunity to speak.
Main Functions of the General Assembly
(i) Discussion and Recommendations
The Assembly discusses major global issues such as peace and security, development, human rights, environment, and refugee crises. It provides recommendations to member states on these issues.
(ii) Approval of the Budget
The General Assembly approves the annual UN budget and determines the financial contributions of member countries.
(iii) Admission of New Members
The Assembly has the authority to approve or reject the admission of new member states.
(iv) Election of Non-Permanent Members of the Security Council
It elects non-permanent members to the Security Council, ECOSOC, and other UN bodies.
(v) Participation in the Appointment of the Secretary-General
The General Assembly approves the appointment of the UN Secretary-General based on the Security Council’s recommendation.
No Judicial Power
Most decisions of the General Assembly are recommendations (non-binding). They do not have legal force, but they carry strong diplomatic and moral value.
Conclusion
The United Nations General Assembly is a global platform where all nations gather to discuss issues affecting humanity. It strengthens global democracy through dialogue, cooperation, and collective problem-solving.
Security Council of the United Nations
The Security Council is the most powerful and influential organ of the United Nations. Its primary responsibility is to maintain international peace and security. Whenever there is a situation of war, conflict, or violence in any region, the Security Council intervenes.
Key Features
1. Membership
The Security Council consists of 15 members:
Permanent Members (5)
- United States (USA)
- Russia
- China
- France
- United Kingdom (UK)
These five nations possess the Veto Power, meaning that if any one of them vetoes a proposal, it cannot be passed.
Non-Permanent Members (10)
- Elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms.
- Chosen based on regional representation.
- India has served as a non-permanent member multiple times.
Main Functions
(i) Maintaining International Peace
In situations of war or conflict, the Security Council suggests treaties, negotiations, arbitration, and ceasefires. In case of severe threats, it can also deploy UN peacekeeping forces.
(ii) Sanctions and Military Action
The Council can authorize economic sanctions, arms embargoes, or even military intervention when necessary.
(iii) Appointment of the Secretary-General
The Security Council recommends a candidate for the post of Secretary-General to the General Assembly.
(iv) Selection of ICJ Judges
Together with the General Assembly, the Council participates in electing judges to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Effect of Veto Power
If any permanent member casts a “NO” vote, the proposal is rejected—even if all other members support it. This often results in important global proposals remaining unapproved.
India and the Security Council
- India is a founding member of the United Nations.
- India has been elected as a non-permanent member several times.
- India has long advocated for permanent membership, and global support for this demand is steadily increasing.
Conclusion
The Security Council is the UN’s core decision-making body for resolving conflicts and maintaining peace. While its structure is powerful, the veto system sometimes limits its ability to act decisively. Nevertheless, it remains a crucial institution for global stability.
Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is one of the major organs of the United Nations. Its primary responsibility is to address global economic, social, cultural, health, and human rights issues and promote cooperation among nations. ECOSOC plays a vital role in global development, sustainability, and human well-being.
Key Features
1. Membership
- ECOSOC consists of 54 member countries.
- Members are elected by the General Assembly for a term of three years.
- Membership is chosen with attention to geographical representation (Asia, Africa, Europe, etc.).
2. Meetings and Sessions
- ECOSOC holds its annual session in July.
- Special sessions may also be convened to address urgent global issues.
Main Functions
(i) Promoting Economic and Social Development
ECOSOC works to address issues such as poverty, unemployment, inequality, and challenges faced by developing nations.
(ii) Promotion of Human Rights and Education
The Council promotes programs for the rights of women, children, minorities, and marginalized groups, and supports initiatives for global literacy and higher education.
(iii) Coordination of Specialized UN Agencies
ECOSOC coordinates the functioning of several specialized UN agencies, including:
- UNESCO – Education, Science, and Culture
- WHO – World Health Organization
- UNICEF – Children’s Fund
- ILO – International Labour Organization
- UNDP – United Nations Development Programme
(iv) Organizing International Conferences & Reports
ECOSOC organizes global conferences and publishes reports on sustainable development, climate change, gender equality, and other global challenges.
India and ECOSOC
India has been an active member of ECOSOC and has supported several initiatives related to social justice, healthcare, and development assistance for developing countries.
Conclusion
The Economic and Social Council is the central platform for formulating policies related to development, equality, education, health, and economic growth. It strengthens global cooperation and contributes significantly to human welfare and progress.
International Court of Justice (Judicial Council)
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), also known as the Judicial Council of the United Nations, is the principal judicial organ of the UN. Its primary function is to settle international disputes and interpret international laws, thereby strengthening global justice and the rule of law.
Key Features
1. Location
The ICJ is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands. It is the only UN organ located outside New York.
2. Establishment
The Court was established in 1945 along with the United Nations and began functioning in 1946.
3. Structure
- The Court has 15 judges.
- Judges are elected by the General Assembly and Security Council for nine-year terms.
- No two judges can be from the same country.
4. President and Vice-President
The ICJ elects a President and Vice-President from among its judges.
Main Functions
(i) Settlement of International Disputes
The Court settles cases related to border disputes, treaty interpretation, diplomatic relations, and human rights issues. Only countries can bring cases to the ICJ—individuals and private organizations cannot.
(ii) Advisory Opinions
The General Assembly, the Security Council, and other UN bodies may request legal advice from the Court. These opinions are non-binding but carry significant moral and legal influence.
Validity of Decisions
ICJ judgments are binding but apply only to countries participating in the case. If a country does not comply with a decision, the matter may be referred to the Security Council.
India and the ICJ
India has approached the ICJ in several important cases, including:
- Kulbhushan Jadhav Case (2017)
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli Case (1960)
Notable Indian judges who served at the ICJ include Nagendra Singh and Dalveer Bhandari.
Conclusion
The International Court of Justice is a crucial pillar of the United Nations, ensuring peaceful resolution of disputes and strengthening legal order worldwide. It promotes justice, fairness, and rule of law among nations.
Secretariat of the United Nations
The Secretariat is the administrative organ of the United Nations. It is responsible for carrying out the day-to-day operations of the UN, supporting all other organs through technical, administrative, and research activities.
Key Features
1. Secretary-General
The Secretariat is headed by the United Nations Secretary-General. The Secretary-General serves as the chief administrative officer and spokesperson of the UN. The term is five years, appointed by the General Assembly on the recommendation of the Security Council.
Current Secretary-General (until 2025): Antonio Guterres (Portugal)
2. Headquarters
The Secretariat headquarters is located in New York City (USA), with regional offices in Geneva, Vienna, Nairobi, and other locations.
Main Functions
(i) Administrative Functions
Organizing UN meetings, preparing reports, translating and publishing documents, and assisting the General Assembly, Security Council, ECOSOC, and other organs.
(ii) Policy Implementation
The Secretariat ensures the implementation of decisions and policies adopted by the General Assembly and the Security Council. It also manages peacekeeping missions and development programs.
(iii) Confidential Reporting
The Secretary-General may send confidential reports to the Security Council or the General Assembly when crises or conflicts arise. This gives the Secretary-General an important diplomatic and political role.
(iv) Addressing Global Issues
The Secretariat brings attention to global issues such as climate change, sustainable development, human rights, and pandemics, and helps coordinate solutions.
Staff and Languages
- The Secretariat comprises approximately 40,000 employees from around the world.
- The six official languages of the United Nations are:
- English
- French
- Spanish
- Russian
- Arabic
- Chinese
Conclusion
The Secretariat is the backbone of the United Nations. Its administrative transparency, efficiency, and leadership under the Secretary-General play a crucial role in the successful functioning of the organization.
Trusteeship Council
The Trusteeship Council is one of the principal organs of the United Nations. It was established to supervise and guide territories that were not self-governing—primarily former colonies administered by victorious nations.
Establishment and Objectives
- Established under Chapter 13 of the UN Charter in 1945.
- Its main objective was to help trust territories develop politically, economically, socially, and educationally, and become independent nations.
Main Functions
- Monitoring the progress of trust territories.
- Ensuring that administrative authorities governed these areas in the interest of the people.
- Promoting development in education, law, health, and infrastructure.
- Helping these territories achieve independence and self-governance.
Members
Members included nations administering trust territories (such as the United States, Britain, and France), along with all permanent members of the Security Council.
Examples of Trust Territories
Several territories in Africa and the Pacific—such as Tonga, Papua New Guinea, and Namibia—were under the trusteeship system.
Cessation of Work
All trust territories eventually gained independence. The Trusteeship Council effectively completed its mission with the independence of Palau in 1994. Since then, it has remained inactive, though it still formally exists as a UN organ.
Conclusion
The Trusteeship Council played a crucial role in ending colonial rule and promoting the principles of independence and self-determination. Its contributions were vital in shaping newly independent nations and advancing human rights across the world.
India and the United Nations
Relations between India and the United Nations have been historic, dynamic, and multidimensional. India is a founding member of the United Nations and has consistently contributed to global peace, development, human rights, and international cooperation. India has always played an active and responsible role within the UN system.
Key Contributions and Roles
(i) Founding Member
- In 1945, India signed the UN Charter and became one of the founding members of the United Nations.
- Although India was not independent at that time, it still held a respected position among the founding states.
(ii) Contribution to Peacekeeping Missions
- India is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions.
- Indian peacekeepers have served in Congo, Sudan, Lebanon, Cyprus, Haiti, and several other conflict zones.
- More than 200,000 Indian soldiers have served in UN peacekeeping operations so far.
(iii) Presidency of the General Assembly
- In 1953, V.K. Krishna Menon was elected President of the UN General Assembly.
- India has played influential roles in many General Assembly sessions and UN councils.
(iv) Membership of the Security Council
- India has been elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council eight times (most recently 2021–2022).
- India has long advocated for permanent membership in the Security Council.
- Many countries support India’s claim, given its global contributions and demographic significance.
(v) Participation in UN Agencies
- India actively participates in agencies such as WHO, UNESCO, UNICEF, UNDP, and FAO.
- India has adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is working on poverty reduction, health, education, and women’s empowerment.
(vi) Human Rights and Climate Change
- India has presented a responsible and balanced approach on issues like climate change, environmental protection, human rights, and sustainable development at the United Nations.
Special Initiatives of India
- International Yoga Day (21 June) was proposed by India and accepted by the UN in 2014. It is now celebrated globally.
- Under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, India supplied COVID-19 vaccines to many countries during the pandemic, earning global appreciation.
Conclusion
India has always supported the objectives of the United Nations with the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (“The whole world is one family”). India’s contribution to global peace, development, and justice has strengthened its relationship with the UN, and it will continue to be a responsible and positive partner in the future.
Conclusion
The United Nations (UNO) was established in 1945 with the aim of promoting global peace, security, human rights, and development. After the devastation of the Second World War, it became essential to create an international organization that could prevent future global conflicts and bring nations together on one platform.
Over the decades, the United Nations has played a commendable role in peacekeeping, disaster management, poverty reduction, education, healthcare expansion, environmental protection, and strengthening global cooperation. However, it also faces limitations—especially criticism regarding the veto power in the Security Council.
India has maintained a cooperative and constructive relationship with the United Nations and has actively contributed to global peace and development. The UN continues to be a symbol of trust and cooperation for the international community.
If the functioning of the United Nations becomes more democratic, inclusive, and effective, it will continue to serve as a ray of hope for humanity and remain a valuable institution for future generations.
References
- United Nations. UN Charter and Founding Documents. Available at: https://www.un.org
- United Nations. History of the United Nations. Available at: https://www.un.org/en/about-us/history-of-the-un
- United Nations Peacekeeping. Contributions by Country. Available at: https://peacekeeping.un.org
- Government of India, Ministry of External Affairs. India and the United Nations. Available at: https://mea.gov.in
- UNESCO, WHO, UNICEF, UNDP – Official data and reports from respective UN agencies.
- International Court of Justice. Reports and Case Judgments. Available at: https://www.icj-cij.org
- General knowledge sources including NCERT & Standard Academic Books on International Relations.