Secretariat

Definition

The Secretariat is one of the six main organs of the United Nations, responsible for carrying out the day-to-day work of the organization. It is led by the Secretary-General and serves as the administrative arm, implementing decisions made by other UN bodies, coordinating various programs, and managing peacekeeping operations. The Secretariat plays a crucial role in ensuring that the UN functions effectively and efficiently in addressing global issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Secretariat is tasked with carrying out diverse activities, including conducting studies, organizing conferences, and providing information to member states.
2. It employs thousands of international staff members who work across various fields, from humanitarian assistance to environmental protection.
3. The Secretariat's headquarters are located in New York City, which serves as the central hub for its operations and activities.
4. The Secretary-General is appointed by the General Assembly upon recommendation from the Security Council and typically serves a five-year term, with possibilities for reappointment.
5. The Secretariat plays a vital role in peacekeeping missions by providing logistical support, planning operations, and coordinating with other UN entities involved in conflict resolution.

Review Questions

• How does the Secretariat contribute to the overall effectiveness of the United Nations in addressing global challenges?
  • The Secretariat enhances the effectiveness of the United Nations by implementing decisions made by other organs and coordinating various programs related to peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and development. It provides essential administrative support that allows member states to focus on discussions and decision-making. By employing specialized staff and facilitating communication between different bodies of the UN, the Secretariat ensures that global challenges are met with organized responses.
• Discuss the relationship between the Secretary-General and other principal organs of the United Nations in terms of governance and decision-making.
  • The Secretary-General acts as a bridge between the different principal organs of the United Nations, particularly between the General Assembly and the Security Council. While the General Assembly sets broad policy directions and priorities, it relies on the Secretariat for implementation. The Security Council, on the other hand, may require immediate actions that are coordinated through the Secretariat’s operational capabilities. This collaborative relationship ensures that governance within the UN is efficient and responsive to global issues.
• Evaluate how changes in global politics might influence the role and functions of the Secretariat in future United Nations operations.
  • Changes in global politics, such as shifts in power dynamics among nations or emerging threats like climate change and cybersecurity, could significantly influence how the Secretariat operates. An increasingly multipolar world may require a more agile Secretariat capable of addressing a wider range of issues while managing resources effectively across various regions. Additionally, evolving diplomatic relationships could lead to new mandates for peacekeeping missions or humanitarian efforts, necessitating adaptations in organizational structure and approach to implementation within the Secretariat.

Related terms

Secretary-General: The Secretary-General is the chief administrative officer of the UN and the head of the Secretariat, responsible for overseeing its functions and representing the organization in diplomatic matters.

General Assembly: The General Assembly is one of the six main organs of the UN, composed of all member states, which provides a platform for multilateral discussion of international issues and policies.

Security Council: The Security Council is another principal organ of the UN, responsible for maintaining international peace and security, with the power to make binding decisions on member states.