General Assembly

Definition

The General Assembly is the main deliberative body of the United Nations, where all member states come together to discuss and make decisions on international issues. It provides a unique platform for all countries, regardless of size or power, to voice their opinions and contribute to global governance, shaping the new world order established after the Second World War.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The General Assembly consists of all 193 member states of the United Nations, making it one of the most inclusive international forums.
2. Each member state has one vote in the General Assembly, allowing for equal representation among nations regardless of their economic or military strength.
3. The General Assembly meets annually in a regular session starting in September, but special sessions can be called as needed to address urgent issues.
4. Decisions made in the General Assembly are typically non-binding but carry significant political weight and influence global norms and policies.
5. The General Assembly plays a crucial role in setting the UN's agenda and priorities by discussing pressing global challenges like poverty, human rights, and environmental issues.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of the General Assembly promote equal representation among member states?
  • The structure of the General Assembly is designed to ensure that each of the 193 member states has one vote, which promotes equal representation. This means that countries of all sizes and levels of power can participate in discussions on international issues without being overshadowed by larger or more powerful nations. This equality fosters a sense of shared responsibility and cooperation in addressing global challenges.
• Discuss the impact of resolutions passed by the General Assembly on global governance.
  • Resolutions passed by the General Assembly can significantly impact global governance by shaping international norms and guiding member states' actions. While these resolutions are generally non-binding, they reflect the collective will of the international community and can influence policies and practices worldwide. The General Assembly often addresses critical issues such as climate change, human rights, and development goals, thereby promoting cooperation and dialogue among nations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the General Assembly in addressing global issues compared to other UN bodies like the Security Council.
  • The effectiveness of the General Assembly in addressing global issues can be viewed as both complementary and contrasting to that of the Security Council. While the General Assembly allows for broader discussion and participation from all member states, its resolutions are non-binding and may lack immediate enforcement mechanisms. In contrast, the Security Council has more authority to implement binding decisions but is often criticized for its limited representation due to the veto power held by five permanent members. Therefore, while both bodies play vital roles within the UN system, they operate differently in terms of influence and capacity to effect change.

Related terms

United Nations: An international organization founded in 1945, aimed at promoting peace, security, and cooperation among countries in response to the devastation of World War II.

Security Council: A principal organ of the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security, with the power to make binding decisions that member states are obliged to follow.

Resolution: A formal expression of opinion or intention made by the General Assembly or other UN bodies, often addressing global issues or setting guidelines for member states.