Central Idea

On this day in 1945, the United Nations (UN) was established amid a backdrop of global turmoil, emerging from the shadows of two devastating world wars.
This article traces the birth of the UN, its historical evolution, and highlights both its notable achievements and challenges.

Birth of the UN

Post-World War Turmoil: Following the devastation of both World War I and World War II, global powers were grappling with the need for a more effective international organization to prevent future conflicts.
Predecessor: The League of Nations, established in 1919 after World War I, laid the foundation for the UN’s creation but faltered during World War II.
The Atlantic Charter: In August 1941, US President Franklin D. Roosevelt and UK PM Winston Churchill issued the Atlantic Charter, an affirmation that paved the way for the UN. It articulated shared principles for a better world.
Birth of the Term ‘UN’: The term ‘UN’ was first coined by President Roosevelt in 1941 to identify the Allied nations against the axis powers.
Declaration of the UN: On January 1, 1942, representatives of 26 Allied nations gathered in Washington DC to sign the Declaration of the UN, outlining the war objectives of the Allied powers. India, under British colonial rule, was among these nations.

Formation and Ratification: The UN officially came into existence on October 24, 1945, with ratification by 51 nations, including five permanent members (France, Republic of China, Soviet Union, UK, and US).
General Assembly Inauguration: The first meeting of the General Assembly took place on January 10, 1946.
UN’s Core Goals: The UN was founded on four key goals: maintaining international peace and security, fostering friendly relations among nations, promoting international cooperation in problem-solving, and coordinating global actions toward common objectives.

Membership Growth: Initially comprised of 51 member states, the UN’s membership expanded as independence movements and decolonization unfolded. Today, it boasts 193 member countries.
Broadened Scope: Over 75 years, the UN has tackled numerous global issues, including health, environment, and women’s empowerment.

Peace and Security: Prevented conflicts, mediated peace agreements, and conducted peacekeeping missions in places like Bosnia and Kosovo.
Humanitarian Aid: Provided vital aid through agencies like WFP and UNICEF, offering food, shelter, and healthcare during crises.
Human Rights: Established the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and monitors violations globally through mechanisms like the Human Rights Council.
Health: Led efforts against diseases like smallpox and HIV/AIDS through WHO, addressing current threats like COVID-19.
Refugee Support: UNHCR aids refugees and internally displaced persons while advocating for their rights.
Environmental Advocacy: Raised awareness about climate change, negotiated the Paris Agreement, and promotes sustainability via UNEP.

Genocide Prevention: Failed to prevent genocides like Rwanda and Srebrenica despite early warnings.
Peacekeeping Challenges: Faced issues like misconduct allegations and difficulties in halting violence in missions like South Sudan.
Veto Powers: Criticized for Security Council veto powers that hinder action and maintain power imbalances.
Enforcement Limits: Reliant on member states for enforcement, leading to limited action in cases of non-compliance, as seen in the Iraq War.
Lack of Representation: Critiqued for underrepresenting Global South countries in key decision-making bodies.
Neoliberal Influence: Accused of promoting neoliberal economic policies, which can exacerbate inequalities, through associated organizations like the World Bank and IMF.

2020 Declaration: In a high-level UN General Assembly meeting commemorating 75 years of the UN, a declaration was adopted outlining goals for the next decade. These include protecting the environment, promoting peace, gender equality, digital cooperation, and sustainable financing.
Decade of Action: The next ten years, designated as the “decade of action and delivery for sustainable development,” are considered critical for addressing global challenges, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The UN, born out of the ashes of conflict, has played a significant role in shaping the world’s course over the past 75 years.
Its journey has been marked by both notable achievements and formidable challenges.
As it enters a new decade with a renewed commitment to global betterment, the UN continues to evolve as a pivotal force in promoting international cooperation and addressing humanity’s most pressing issues.