What is the United Nations?
The United Nations is a major organization that participates in promoting world peace and human rights since 1945. Backed up by numerous countries, predominately U.S, China, U.K., etc., they will intervene in any international crisis that needs attention/support. Additionally, the UN will prevent conflict by maintaining peace and creating thriving environments. Specifically stated in the UN chapter is “to achieve international co-operation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character.” After the Second World War, the UN played a key role in redeveloping the countries that were greatly affected by providing humanitarian need. Additionally, the UN will provide their assistance to any country that undergoes nature disasters.
One of the main priorities for the UN is to “achieve international co-operation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character and in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion.” Improving a country, whether it being economically or socially, the UN has always prioritized the well-being of people and strives to give vast opportunities as well.
There are many long-term effects of this peace-loving organization. Below are listed:
*There are 16 peacekeeping operations around the world that are carried out by 125,000 men and women from 120 countries.
*Since the 1990’s, there has been a 40% decline in conflict around the world.
*The UN is very keene about nuclear weapons and attempts to limits countries production of this. The International Atomic *Energy Agency (IAEA) is a nuclear weapon inspector; there are safeguards in 180 countries.
*The UN cleared landmines in 30 countries.
*Formulated the first global plan to combat terrorism.
*UN Development Programme (UNDP): in 170 countries that supports more than 4,800 projects to reduce poverty, environmental rights, and promote “good governance.”
*UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF): in more than 150 countries, primarily on child protection, immunization, girls’ education and emergency aid.
*UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD): helps developing countries make the most of their trade opportunities.
These are a few ways the UN has left its marks on our world as we know it. There has been significant talk of defunding the UN… but this organization performs and aids people in any way they can. With the defunding, children, women, and people around the world would lose out on the things the UN works hard to achieve. This international group gives countries a great amount of hope that in the midst of crises, help will always be provided. Now a days, our world is so unpredictable and consistently changing; we have to prepare for the worst while hoping for the best.
Sources: http://www.un.org/en/sections/what-we-do/, http://www.un.org/un70/en/content/70ways