History of the United Nations
October 24th, 1945, the United Nations was born to the world, forever changing it. Originated from the League of Nations after World War 1, the people of nations across the world decided they would come together to develop friendly connections between countries, and create a center to try and eliminate poverty, illiteracy, build respect for human rights, develop an international infrastructure for support, and prevent environmental destruction.
The Fall of League of Nations
Soon after World War 2 began, the League fell due to lack of collective support. No country was willing to give up economic or military sanctions during the war. The nations who had once teamed together eventually withdrew, they were accustomed to working independently.
What happened: - The United States never actually joined.
- Germany was only in it for 7 years from 1926
- From 1934, the USSR was a member for 5 years.
- Both Japan and Italy withdrew in the 30's.
With Britain and France being the only ones left to carry the abandoned weight, they were very hesitant to be the main ones in charge.
The UN Charter
In 1944, the representatives of the UK, US, USSR, and China joined at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington, DC. This became a meeting to create a plan for a new international organization. As World War 2 was coming to a close, a new foundation for the world was being created in San Francisco throughout April-June 1945 . On June 26th, 1945, the Charter of the United Nations was signed by 50 countries, with the exception of Poland that was unable to send a representative, but still was included. Peace, Economic, and Social progress morals from the original League of Nations still remained, but formulated better to fit the new post-war era.
Most Recently
In the 1960's, UN conferences began to occur. In Brazil, Rio de Janiero held the Earth Summit in 1992.
The General Assembly
From September to December each year, the General Assembly gathers several times to have discussions on international issues covered by the Charter. This diverse forum consists of 193 members of the United Nations, and is the main representation and policy-making part of the United Nations organization. How there system works:
- They make important decisions on issues such as international peace, security, admitting new members, and economic matters.
- There is one vote for each country, and something voted on will only pass through if it acquires two-thirds majority votes.
- After this process, it will go to the main board where the final decision is made by the original United Nations countries.
- Also, there are many branches called subsidiary organs that the General Assembly needs to help with the whole process. These categories include: Boards, Commissions, Committees, Councils and Panels, Working groups and others.
- During these sessions, there are non-member countries and organizations that receive invitations to observe.
- Out of all committees, there are six main ones: First Committee(Disarmament and International Security), Second Committee(Economic and Financial), Third Committee(Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural), Fourth Committee(Special Political and Decolonization), Fifth Committee(Administrative and Budgetary), Sixth Committee(Legal).
International Court of Justice
Also known as the World Court or ICJ, is the primary judicial branch of the United Nations. It is based and located in the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. Its main functions are: - To settle legal disputes submitted by states.
- Provides advisory opinions on legal issues submitted by other equally authorized international branches, agencies, and the General Assembly.
It was established in 1945 by the UN Charter, with the jurisdiction being worldwide with 192 State Parties. There are a total of 15 positions, with each judge's term being for 9 years. Before, this branch had little effect on the world but has became much more involved with judicial issues since the 1980's; and especially deals with developing countries.
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Ageing: A Global Issue- As each year goes by, the ageing elderly population is increasing at an alarming rate. Because of a decline in fertility rates, the ageing population of over 60 years of age will most likely double between 2007 and 2050. Soon their ageing population's number will triple to make an amount of almost 2 billion by 2050. What is happening is a unique and natural process of demographic transition which cannot be stopped. This increasing elderly population is a problem that is gaining much concern. The reason being is that the elderly tend to be discriminated against, be taken advantage of, and need assistance with health/nutrition, housing/environment, income security/employment, social welfare, education, and family affairs. Ageing increases are most prevalent in third-world and less developed countries. About 64% of all older individuals live in the less developed countries, and that number is expected to rise by 80% by 2050. Looking at the big picture, this issue affects not only the elderly, but the whole world's population also. As the United Nations felt increasing concern, several things have already taken affect in fighting against this issue:
- "Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing"~The General Assembly held its first World Assembly on Ageing during 1982. This gathering focused on health/nutrition, protecting elderly consumers, housing/environment, social welfare, education, and the collection/analysis of research data.
- "United Nations Principles of for Older Persons"~The General Assembly gathered in 1991 to enumerate 18 entitlements for older persons pertaining to: independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment, and dignity. The following year they declared a Proclamation on Ageing.
- "International Year of Older Persons"~The year of 1999 was declared this by the General Assembly.
- "Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing"~Created during the Second World Assembly on Ageing held in Madrid. The plan of action focused on: changes in attitudes, policies and practices that need to adjust to the mighty change in ageing of the 21st Century.
- The UN's overall purpose is to adjust the world to create supportive environments and advancing the well-being of persons going into old age.
*Model UN Headquarters*
Have you always thought of how you could make an impact on the world? "Be the change you wish to see in the world."--Gandhi once said. By joining our Model United Nations club, you will have the tools, support, and learning experience to do just that. And most of all, we're going to have fun with this! We invite you to please join in this awesome learning experience for all.
~MUN Club Mission Statement~ In this MUN Club, we will form a union to create an engaging learning environment for all. The skills of debate, compromise, public speaking, and respectfully sharing opinions will be exercised. There will be a feeling of self-fulfillment as we explore current global issues and have our eyes opened to new perspectives and possibilities. Through simulation of real occurring world events, it will be an adventurous and fun experience for members.
Get the flyer and permission slip here! (:
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