The United Nations’ Evolution in a Modern World

Written By Eloïse ROUGER

Eloïse ROUGER

The United Nations is often referred to as one of the most significant global organisations in modern history, fostering a reputation of promoting pacific relations between countries. However, the UN’s role has warped and changed significantly since its creation in 1945 in the aftermath of the second world war, leaving the rest of the globe pondering on its real influence and the futility of its impact on global politics. This article explores the origins of the United Nations, the key milestones of the organisation and its shifting geopolitical dynamics through time.

Creation of UN in 1945 - Credits: Rue des Archives

Origins and Formation of the United Nations.

The complete devastation left by World War II triggered a global need to create a peaceful organisation that would prevent future conflict and ensure global stability. At the end of the war, representatives from 50 nations regrouped at the San Francisco conference to establish the organisation and draft the official UN Charter. 

The UN replaced the League of Nations, which had failed to prevent the outbreak of World War II. The new organisation was designed to be more inclusive and effective. It was composed of six principal organs, including the Security Council, the General Assembly, and the International Court of Justice. The Security Council, with five permanent members (China, France, the Soviet Union - now Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States), was granted the authority to maintain international peace and security - the overall goal of the organisation. 

Key Milestones in UN History

Playing a pivotal role in neutralising global crises and specifically shaping international relations, the UN, in its early years, primarily focused on trying to ensure peaceful relations across borders and the resolutions of minor conflicts. During the Korean War, the UN tried to mediate and establish peace talks in between conflict zones. They eventually sent armed forces mandated by the Security Council Resolution in 1950. It was the first undertaking of its kind in the history of the UN. 

The UN also supported decolonisation and hence the fight of nations in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean that were held in a chokehold by European powers such as the UK and France. For example, several member states of the UN played a non-negligible role in the Algerian war to push the French away from the African borders. During the Cold War, the UN was used as a platform for dialogue between the United States and the Soviet Union, overruling any tensions that were already in place and serving as a mediator. The organisation may have faced challenges in preventing proxy wars such as the Vietnam war, but it succeeded in averting direct friction between the two superpowers. 

The UN in a Changing World

Nearing the end of the Cold War, the UN started to focus more on emerging humanitarian challenges. A turbulent time in history, the 1990s, marked an era of intense peacekeeping operations in countries such as Rwanda, Somalia as well as the Balkans. These operations often exposed the clear limitations of the organisation because it encountered issues when focusing on more complex deep rooted humanitarian crises. Millennium Development Goals, launched in 2000 and their successor, the Sustainable Development Goals, put forth the organization’s new ventures towards poverty eradication, education, and environmental sustainability. The UN was broadening its horizons and focusing on resolving as many issues as possible, also combating climate change and promoting landmark agreements such as the Paris Accord.

Critiques of the UN have grown over time, with concerns about bureaucratic inefficiency, unequal representation, and the veto power of permanent Security Council members. Despite these challenges, the organisation remains a central forum for addressing global issues, from cybersecurity to pandemics. 

The Geopolitical Impact of the UN Today

Today, the UN perseveres in its exertion of influence in international diplomacy, the General Assembly serving as a floor for different nations to put forth their concerns whilst the Security Council maneuvers more geopolitical issues such as the mediation of the recent Syrian civil war and resolving tensions in the Horn of Africa. A global leader in climate action, the UN’s adaptability to new challenges can be admired. Partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and regional blocs have also permitted it to address challenges from a multi-partisan approach due to their multifaceted nature. Nonetheless, the fine line between maintaining neutrality and succumbing to bias is often strained, particularly in conflicts with powerful member states involved. Calls for reform have been often suggested to expand the Security Council and limit the veto power, demonstrating the ongoing debates questioning the organisation’s structure and relevance in a rapidly changing world.

Presence of the UN during the Syrian civil war in 2011 - Credits: Irish Mirror

Conclusion

The foundation of the United Nations is a symbol of the abiding aspiration for global peace unity. Since its creation, it has reached remarkable highs and successes, while still facing challenges and criticisms. As the world takes on increasing seemingly insurmountable challenges, the UN is able to maintain its indispensable role as a mediator, pacifier, and advocate for sustainability. 

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Eloïse ROUGER
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