UN General Assembly

Definition

The UN General Assembly is one of the six main organs of the United Nations, composed of all member states, which meets annually to discuss and make decisions on various international issues. It plays a critical role in promoting international cooperation and addressing global challenges, including human rights, peace and security, and sustainable development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The UN General Assembly consists of 193 member states, each having one vote, ensuring equal representation regardless of size or power.
2. Decisions on important issues such as peace and security require a two-thirds majority, while most other issues can be decided by a simple majority.
3. The General Assembly serves as a platform for member states to engage in dialogue and debate on pressing global matters, making it a vital space for diplomacy.
4. Sessions are held annually in September, but special sessions can also be called to address urgent issues as needed.
5. The UN General Assembly has the authority to create international treaties and conventions, which can later be ratified by member states.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of the UN General Assembly facilitate equal participation among member states?
  • The structure of the UN General Assembly ensures that each of the 193 member states has one vote, promoting equality among nations regardless of their size or power. This one-country-one-vote principle allows smaller countries to have an equal say in discussions and decisions on international issues, making it a democratic forum for debate. Additionally, this structure encourages collaboration and consensus-building among diverse nations, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for global challenges.
• Discuss the significance of resolutions passed by the UN General Assembly and how they influence global governance.
  • Resolutions passed by the UN General Assembly hold significant influence over global governance as they reflect the collective will of the international community. While these resolutions are typically non-binding, they serve as a moral authority and guide member states in addressing key issues such as human rights, peacekeeping, and sustainable development. The adoption of resolutions can also pave the way for international treaties or conventions, highlighting their importance in shaping norms and policies that affect global governance.
• Evaluate the impact of the UN General Assembly's decisions on key human rights treaties and conventions.
  • The UN General Assembly plays a crucial role in shaping key human rights treaties and conventions through its deliberations and resolutions. By discussing and endorsing human rights norms during its sessions, the Assembly helps to establish international standards that member states are encouraged to adopt. The influence of these decisions can be seen in instruments like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which emerged from the Assembly's advocacy efforts. Furthermore, as resolutions gain support from member states, they can lead to more binding agreements that enhance protection for individuals worldwide.

Related terms

UN Security Council: The UN Security Council is responsible for maintaining international peace and security, with the power to make binding decisions on member states, including sanctions and military actions.

Resolution: A formal expression of opinion or intention made by a legislative body, such as the UN General Assembly, which may cover a wide range of issues but is generally non-binding.

Specialized Agencies: Agencies that work with the UN to address specific issues like health, education, and economic development, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).