History & Civics
The General Assembly is a kind of Parliament of Nations. In this context, explain briefly:
(a) Its composition
(b) Four of its functions
(c) Importance of 'Uniting for Peace Resolution' of 1950 in maintaining peace
Answer
(a) Composition of the General assembly — All members of the United Nations are members of the General Assembly. Each member shall have not more than five representatives in the General Assembly. However, each State has one vote. The Assembly must meet once a year in September. In addition, the Special Sessions may be convened by the Secretary-General at the request of Security Council or of a majority of the members of the United Nations.
(b) Four functions of General Assembly are:
- Deliberative Functions — The Assembly may discuss any question relating to peace and security. It has the power to make recommendations for the purpose of promoting international cooperation in political field as well as in the economic, social, culture and health fields.
- Supervisory Functions — The General Assembly regulates the working of other organs and agencies of the United Nations. It receives and considers reports from the Security Council and other organs of the United Nations.
- Financial Functions — The General Assembly considers and approves the budget of the United Nations.
- Electoral Functions — The Assembly elects the non-permanent members of the Security Council, the members of the Economic and Social Council, members of International Court of Justice and appoints the Secretary-General upon the recommendations of the Security Council.
(c) With the adoption of 'Uniting for Peace Resolution' in 1950 the position of the Assembly has been considerably strengthened. If the Security Council is unable to reach a decision, because of lack of unanimity among the Permanent Members, the General Assembly can deal with the problem. It can make recommendations for 'collective measures' including the use of armed forces in case of aggression or breach of peace.
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The United Nations was established to be an effective Peace-keeping International Organisation. In this context, explain any four of its objectives and purposes.
The Security Council is a permanently functioning organ of the United Nations. In this context, describe the following:
(a) Its Membership
(b) Four of its Functions
(c) Veto power exercisable by its Permanent Members
The International Court of Justice is the principal Judicial Organ of the United Nations. In this context, explain the following:
(a) Its Composition
(b) Its Compulsory Jurisdiction
(c) Its Voluntary Jurisdiction
(d) Its Advisory Function