Abstract
The United Nations (UN) is the leading inter-governmental organization that still holds great power over issues of global governance, diplomacy, and international cooperation. The UN was created in 1945 and its main goal is to maintain international peace and security, and promote human rights and Socio-economic development. Thereupon, through the decades, the UN has addressed challenges and has adapted to the emergence of new threats to international peace and security, such as climate change, terrorism, pandemics, and all phenomena related to sustainable development. Nevertheless, despite its advantages in delivering diplomacy and humanitarian aid, the UN has been constantly criticized for inefficiency, bureaucracy, and disproportionate power to global leadership in keeping with the Security Council permanent members interests. UN is in need of restructuring to straighten its goals with its activities since the world of 1945 was very different from the world in the 21st century. Many of the structures and processes of the UN reflect a bygone era change that have happened in the last 65 years. Nicola-Ann Hardwick explains that reform of the United Nations is a much-debated subject constantly on the UN agenda as a necessary waiting in order to strengthen the UN’s effectiveness as a multilateral organization, bring more transparency to the institution and enhance its credibility. He also mentions that the main focus is on the reform of the Security Council (SC), as this is the most powerful UN institution with the most potential for bringing change. The present study aims to provide a critical performance-based assessment of the UN’s organizational structure, governance processes, and efficiency in managing global crises. Furthermore, the UN’s benefits and drawbacks, its structural reform needs for boosting governance efficiency and relevance to world challenges in the 21st century, will be evaluated. With reference to recent literature and empirical materials, this article provides a comprehensive review of the UN’s important role in contemporary international relations, assessing its impact on member states and identifying potential measures for continued success and effectiveness.
Keywords
United Nations (UN), Relevance, UN Member States
1. Introduction
1.1. Background of the United Nations
The newly created organization is called the “United Nations,” which was established by 51 member states having a set of goals and principles in order to prevent wars from arising among states through diplomatic endeavors, collective enforcement, and cooperation among all nations
. The United Nations’ establishment was primarily due to the incompetence of the League of Nations when it comes to maintaining peace and security and ultimately failing to stop the Second World War. The League of Nations lacks enforcement power, so the United Nations was established to replace it and has the primary goal of seeing peace and security among conflicting states all over the globe. The United Nations has its headquarters in the United States, New York. The United Nations is now the largest and most powerful international organization having 193 member states and since its establishment has played a vital role in shaping international relations as it serves as the primary mediator among conflicting nations
. The United Nations is now doing its best to resolve ongoing conflicts and has become central to maintaining peace and security among nations. The United Nations has principal organs in place to govern sovereign states for harmony and peaceful confrontations on a conflict such as the General Assembly, Security Council, International Court of Justice, Economic and Social Council, Secretary-General, and the now suspended Trusteeship Council. To name a few branches, these loyal arms of the UN serve its ultimate goal to practice international law, deploy and oversee peacekeeping troops, and administer humanitarian assistance to affected member states
| [32] | W_Nicola-Ann Hardwick, Should the UN be reformed. How? March 22 2011. |
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Figure 1. Origin and Memberships in the United Nations.
The scope of work assigned to the United Nations is no longer limited to peace and security issues, as it has been expanding its programs to economic and social development, environmental awareness protection, health programs, and even the rights of people all over the world.
It has successfully built strong programs like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), World Health Organization (WHO), and United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) that are focused on attaining its goals in dealing with the most alarming issues in the world such as poverty, widely spreading diseases, and climate change
| [4] | Guterres, A. (2023). Our Common Agenda: Report of the Secretary-General. United Nations. |
[4]
. The organization has served as a facilitator for decades in major treaties negotiated, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted in 1948 and the Paris Climate Agreement of 2015, that would bear witness to its influence on the world distance governance. However, despite its accomplishments, the UN is the subject of criticisms in various aspects, including the perception of imbalanced power across its Security Council Committee members. The Security Council committee consists of about five permanent members receiving veto privileges namely the Republic of China, France, Russian Federation, United Kingdom, and the United States of America (USA)
.
The powers granted to a few members of this committee caused uproars because of questions on whether the UN can rightfully and justly function throughout its institutions if some countries have more power than others. Time and again, the call for change reverberates around this concern. Other than that, criticisms regarding slave governance, bureaucracy, and inefficiency of the organization all translate to the existing funding frustration resulting in the Mull of humanitarian actions. Weighing all these, it would leave us to ponder the question: Does the UN still have its say in terms of relevance in today’s and tomorrow’s changing world? As such, and for the purpose of today’s study, we will be focusing on the governance of the United Nations, ranging from its impact today and in the future, cases in the past, and calling for reformation when necessary.
1.2. Purpose and Objectives of the Study
The purpose of the study is to probe the workings of the United Nations through its structure and governance mechanism and its ability to maintain peace and provide necessary humanitarian aid to the world. The study will facilitate understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the United Nations in resolving international conflicts, economic development, and protection of human rights.
Additionally, the study will explore the significance of the United Nations to member countries by identifying the areas that require constructive reforms to improve the functioning of the United Nations in ensuring global governance.
The study has the following specific objectives:
1. To explore the historical background and significance of the United Nations in the global political scenario.
2. To analyze the organization and governing structure of the United Nations.
3. To evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the United Nations in establishing and maintaining peace.
4. To assess the role and contribution of the United Nations in ensuring human rights, economic development and environmental protection.
5. To identify and examine the issues faced by the United Nations and suggest solutions for enhancing its functioning and effectiveness.
1.3. Scope and Methodology
The topic of the study is the United Nations (UN) and its contribution to global governance. The study aims to critically analyze the major organs and agencies of the UN and its role in peacekeeping, development, and humanitarian interventions globally. The effectiveness of UN-initiated peacekeeping operations and negotiations in conflicts and humanitarian interventions will be analyzed. The contribution of the UN to the sustainable development of nations, climate governance and action, as well as interventions in the health crises, will be discussed. The scope of the study covers the recent developments of the UN from 2019 to 2025. The methodology of the research includes qualitative analysis of data collected from secondary resources such as articles in journals, published works, and reports, among other sources. The evaluation of policies is based on empirical data obtained from recognized international bodies like the United Nations, World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), among others. Statistical data analysis employed in previous studies concerning the League of Nations and other international organizations is also complemented for a comparative analysis.
1.4. Relevance/Significance of the Study
The United Nations has been contributing to world peace, diplomacy, economic development, and welfare. The proposed study is significant in understanding the impact of the UN on country governance in the international arena. It aims to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the UN as an international organization and its effectiveness in tackling issues worldwide. The proposed study is beneficial not only for students of international relations but also for the UN, policymakers, and government officials. It is also relevant to the current affairs of the world in analyzing the demands of the 21st century. With the ongoing conflicts in several countries and the continuous threats of pollution and climate change, political analysts see the necessity for UN reforms to adapt to the demands of the time. The causes of wars and conflict crises are also prevalent in countries rich in natural resources. The UN can be an effective mediator, but it requires efficient intervention programs and measures to serve the purpose.
2. Relevance and Significance of the United Nations
2.1. Significance of the UN in Global Governance
The United Nations (UN) is central to global governance, with 193 states as its members and a platform for cooperation Founded in 1945, its objectives are maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among nations, and promoting social progress, better standards of living, and human rights across people (United Nations, 2024). Therefore, through its organs and specialized agencies, the UN responds to global issues such as conflict resolution, humanitarian assistance, sustainable development and climate change, and international cohesion
. As such, its universal membership and comprehensive mandate are a unique position for addressing national and global challenges coordinated to serve a common goal
| [4] | Guterres, A. (2023). Our Common Agenda: Report of the Secretary-General. United Nations. |
[4]
. In recent years, the UN has played a vital role, and at the same time, its efforts have been challenged in promoting multilateralism worldwide. It facilitated a multilateral response to the coronavirus disease 2019, COVID-19 pandemic as the World Health Organization relied on supplies and support from member nations
. Yet, at the same time, it has been criticized for inefficiency, especially regarding the veto powers of the permanent state members of the Security Council during enormous decision-making crises. Despite the criticisms, the UN remains an essential multilateral forum with that, a symbol that the international community is committed to solving pressing world problems collectively
. Furthermore, the importance of the UN to global governance manifested in its initiative of adapting to new global challenges such as the Behavioural model 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development where it puts importance on declaring the most common and urgent priorities of the world, through mobilization of all available resources to address worldwide problems such as poverty and inequalities, and climate change, to mention a few
| [24] | United Nations. (n.d.). General Assembly of the United Nations. Retrieved February 22, 2025, from https://www.un.org/en/ga/ |
[24]
. In this light, the priority aims to forge collaboration of national governments, civil society, and the private sector, offering a different mindset from that of conventional means; hence, changes in times and positive outcomes make a fair ground for all United Nations Development Programme (UNDP),
.
2.2. Role of the UN in Strengthening International Relations
Figure 2. United Nations Development Program.
The UN play a crucial role in strengthening international relations by providing a neutral platform where countries can engage in dialogue, negotiate agreements, and resolve disputes peacefully. Through its General Assembly, Security Council, and specialized agencies, the UN facilitates diplomatic interactions that help build trust and cooperation among nations. This collaborative environment is essential for addressing complex global issues that require coordinated responses, such as climate change, terrorism, and pandemics. One of the key mechanisms through which the UN enhances international relations is its peacekeeping operations. By deploying multinational forces to conflict zones, the UN helps to stabilize regions, protect civilians, and create conditions for lasting peace. These missions exemplify collective security efforts and demonstrate the international community’s commitment to peace and security
| [1] | Bellamy, A. J., & Williams, P. (2023). Understanding Peacekeeping (3rd ed.). Polity Press. |
[1]
. Additionally, the UN’s mediation and conflict prevention initiatives assist in de-escalating tensions and fostering dialogue between conflicting parties, further contributing to global stability.
Moreover, the UN’s specialized agencies, such as the WHO and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), promote collaboration in areas like public health, education, and cultural preservation. These agencies facilitate the exchange of knowledge and resources, enabling countries to work together towards common goals and strengthen bilateral and multilateral relationships
. Through these collaborative efforts, the UN fosters a sense of global solidarity and interdependence among nations.
2.3. The Impact of the UN on Member States
The UN is open to collaboration, and through its membership, countries enjoy a lot of advantages that will help them, especially in achieving their goals
. As a UN member country, it has a unique opportunity for its voice to be heard when it comes to its concerns and to share with others as it incurs from other nations. The UN encourages each member country to reach out for assistance from the organization if it is to develop various sectors, especially for its public health needs, to address the impact of calamities, whether natural or man-made. If the country is still developing, it still has a long way to go before achieving its goals, and the resources it needs to make progress may still be insufficient at times.
The UN also promotes human rights and the rule of law to its member countries, especially in achieving the goal of maintaining peace and security. Through the UN's promotion of attaining international standards in human rights for all, it is expected that member countries will uphold and protect the rights of all their citizens and their dignity through their governmental policies and programs
| [10] | Thakur, R. (2020). The United Nations, Peace and Security: From Collective Security to the Responsibility to Protect. Cambridge University Press. |
[10]
. This, therefore, attributes to the formation of inclusive and equitable societies and communities that are crucial for making nations stable and peaceful in the long run. The UN also supports democratic governance in its member countries to promote its development for transparency and accountability.
Figure 3. Countries Grouped by United Nations.
Figure 4. Growth Outlook of Major United Nations Member Countries.
3. Structure, Governance, and Roles of the United Nations
3.1. The Principal Organs of the UN
The principal organs of the UN are defined in the UN Charter. There are six organs. Generally, principal organs are separate from each other and play certain roles that are stipulated under the UN Charter. These principal organs help the UN to fulfill its purposes, whether they are peacekeeping, judicial arbitration, or socioeconomic development.
Figure 5. The United Nations System Organizational Chart.
3.1.1. The General Assembly
The General Assembly is the chief deliberative and policy-making body in the UN system where 193 member states come together. Each member state has a vote in the assembly. The General Assembly is a unique platform where multilateral discussion of various issues occurs. Most importantly, this body discusses peace and security as well as the development of a nation among numerous other issues
| [24] | United Nations. (n.d.). General Assembly of the United Nations. Retrieved February 22, 2025, from https://www.un.org/en/ga/ |
[24]
.
3.1.2. The Security Council
The UN Security Council has the main responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. The Security Council comprises 15 members, 5 being permanent members and the remaining 10 as non-permanent members. The five permanent members are China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The ten non-permanent members serve a two-year term. This body has the power to create binding resolutions, and the UN member states are obliged to comply and carry out the resolution
.
3.1.3. The International Court of Justice
The principal judicial organ of the UN is the International Court of Justice, which is located in the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. The major function of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is to settle legal disputes (which is concerned with international law) and give advisory opinions on legal matters that are referred by the General Assembly, the Security Council, and other bodies or specialized agencies authorized by the General Assembly
.
3.1.4. The Secretariat
The Secretariat is the organ that implements the day-to-day operations of the UN in accordance with what has been directed by the General Assembly and other organ representatives. The head of the secretariat is the secretary general, and it specializes in providing service to other organs. Moreover, the Secretariat also implements the administration of UN policies and programs as prescribed by other organs
.
3.1.5. The Economic and Social Council
The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is the principal organ that is responsible for coordination, policy review, and policy dialogue activities on economic and social issues.
Furthermore, economic, social, and environmental issues can also be dealt with by the ECOSOC, including the implementation of internationally agreed goals and development globally. The (ECOSOC) comprises of 54 member states elected by the Assembly throughout overlapping three-year terms
.
3.1.6. The Trusteeship Council
The Trusteeship Council previously handled trustee territories to govern peacefully until they became independent or self-governed. On November 1, 1994, the Trusteeship Council has suspended its operation since all of the trustee territories are currently self-governed or independent states
.
3.2. Specialized Agencies, Programs, and Subsidiary Bodies
The United Nations devotedly works for the welfare of the society globally and offers them guidance and aid through different programs. For example, programs such as the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) provide long-term humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and mothers in developing countries
. The UN operates on an extensive and complex organizational structure that addresses global issues through its various organs and specialized agencies. In this regard, subsidiary bodies established by the principal organs, such as the General Assembly and ECOSOC, execute the aim of the organization. For example, the Human Rights Council, established as a subsidiary body of the General Assembly, has been tasked with promoting and protecting human rights around the world
.
Similarly, the UN Development Program creates development solutions through the ECOSOC, which is one of the programs organized under the UN to promote change by connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help build a better life for people. These programs work hand-in-hand to promote welfare to humanity and ensure that everyone gets the attention they need from the organization.
3.3. Decision-Making and Implementation Processes
The body's decision-making process is a critical factor that will spell the difference in whether the United Nations mandates can truly be implemented. The General Assembly makes decisions on issues of international peace and security, admitting new members, decisions on budgetary matters, and guidance and management of UN operations and other issues. For matters requiring significant attention, a two-thirds majority is required to pass such a decision, while for other issues, a simple majority can do. However, despite the fact that resolutions of the Assembly are not legally binding internationally, the resolution is imbued with international standards and norms that the General Assembly observes as prohibitive in nature, thus making it a basis for the permissiveness of member states
| [29] | Weiss, T. G., Carayannis, T., & Jolly, R. (2021). The United Nations and Changing World Politics. Routledge. |
[29]
. On the other hand, for the Security Council, the decision-making process is also strict and implementable. Security Council members comprise fifteen members, wherein most of the decisions require a minimum of nine affirmative votes among the fifteen as well as the concurrence of the five permanent members known as the "P5". P5 members, which include China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, can veto any substantive matter, thus making decision implementation a challenge when such a phenomenon occurs. However, once a decision is made by the Council, the members of the United Nations must comply and implement the measures therein, which are obligatory and legally binding, such that the decision can be in any form of sanctions, peacekeeping operation, or sanction actions for force
| [29] | Weiss, T. G., Carayannis, T., & Jolly, R. (2021). The United Nations and Changing World Politics. Routledge. |
[29]
.
3.4. The Role of the UN in Peace, Security, and Human Rights
Figure 6. The Biggest Contributors to UN Peacekeeping Operations.
The UN is one of the central institutions that works towards international peace and security. Its peacekeeping forces are deployed in different parts of the world with the aim of restoring order and maintaining peace in conflict areas. Peacekeeping missions are operated by multinational forces, and protected areas are created for civilians. They also serve as a support to implement peace agreements in the areas of deployment. The UN peacekeeping actions are authorized by the Security Council, and member countries are asked for personnel and resources
. In addition to peacekeeping forces, the UN also works with preventive diplomacy and mediation to ensure world security and peace. The UN appoints special envoys in order to facilitate discussions between conflicting parties before conflict escalates into violence. The UN is also responsible for promoting and safeguarding human rights across the world.
It has developed a great deal of instruments in carrying out this mandate. There is a Human Rights Council that operates under the UN, and it monitors, addresses, and makes recommendations that help to improve human rights situations across the world
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The council also supports all its activities with sufficient material and political backing, and the help the council is backed by the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR), whose main agenda is to ensure all rights are protected for the citizens and also to help nations to implement related human rights laws
.
Figure 7. UN Peace Operations Budget, 1990-2017.
4. Strengths, Weaknesses, and Challenges of the United Nations
4.1. Strengths of the United Nations
The United Nations leverages its global reach and diverse membership to address pressing international challenges, demonstrating unique strengths that have evolved since its inception in 1945.
4.1.1. Promotion of International Cooperation and Diplomacy
The UN role in promoting multilateralism has been pivotal in fostering global collaborations to achieve sustainable development goals. One of its key functionalities is to serve as a platform for dialogue among member states, thereby supporting the establishment of international norms and standards. This collective approach has been instrumental in addressing challenges that transcend national borders, such as climate change, pandemics, and terrorism. Through various organs and specialized agencies, the UN facilitates treaties and agreements that promote peace and security worldwide
. The UN's commitment to multilateralism has led to significant achievements in conflict resolution and peacekeeping. Its peacekeeping missions have played crucial roles in stabilizing regions plagued by conflict, thereby preventing the escalation of violence and fostering conditions conducive to sustainable development.
For instance, recent missions in South Sudan and Mali highlight the UN's ongoing efforts to maintain peace in volatile regions
. By uniting diverse nations under a common purpose, the UN exemplifies the strength of collective action in addressing complex global issues.
4.1.2. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Efforts
The UN is renowned for its swift and effective humanitarian assistance during crises. Agencies like the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the World Food Programme (WFP) are at the forefront of delivering aid to populations affected by natural disasters, conflicts, and other emergencies. Their efforts ensure the provision of essential services such as food, clean water, shelter, and medical care to those in dire need. In addition to immediate relief, the UN focuses on long-term recovery and resilience-building. By working closely with local communities and governments, it implements programs aimed at rebuilding infrastructure, restoring livelihoods, and enhancing preparedness for future disasters. A 2023 report by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) emphasized the importance of these efforts in building resilient communities’ post-disaster. This comprehensive approach underscores the UN's dedication to not only alleviating immediate suffering but also promoting sustainable development and resilience in vulnerable regions
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[6]
.
4.1.3. Protection of Human Rights and Advocacy for Social Justice
Finally, the UN has achieved remarkable human rights advocacy. The UN worked for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, which was a landmark, as it set common standards for all human beings to uphold dignity and freely express themselves. Through the Human Rights Council and OHCHR, the UN works to monitor and address human rights issues in the world by providing technical assistance and upholding these action principles
. The organization also advocates for social justice rights like gender justice, racism, and indigenous people's rights, among others. Along with these efforts, UN Women is one of the programs that was founded to promote action for the empowerment of women and equality, and these programs also advocate for inclusive social justice. The UN Women progress report 2024 finds that a major stride was made in implementing the gender equality action plan in Africa and Asia. As it is already seen here with gender justice, the UN is indeed committed to and devoted to pushing its causes to foster a just world for people.
4.1.4. Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
In 2015 the UN launched sustainable development goals (SDGs), which are 17 interrelated development goals that target poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice. The SDGs aim for 2030, and the goals are a common framework for the world to achieve a prosperous future to transform the world The possible implementation and coordination for the SDOs is known to be through the UN. The UN mobilizes resources, monitors processes, reports, and facilitates partnerships to adapt goals to the existing ones in the respective member states. This SDG collaborative framework aims to advocate for the nations to implement the goals perspective for each nation. The 2024 UN report shows that the SDGs have been adapted in the national plan of over 100 countries, showing the impact of the SDGs on nations. It encourages each state to take responsibility and action. Wielding common interest and action, the UN is developing transformative change with the SDGs, ensuring adopted and desired action is representative and no one is left behind. This comprehensive development policy reveals how strong the UN intervention is at creating unity among nations to achieve common goals for humanity.
4.2. UN Weaknesses and Challenges
Figure 8. Security Council Briefing on Challenges to Peacekeeping in Lebanon, Syria.
However, despite its great successes and considerable support to the world, the UN is still burdened with weaknesses and challenges. The weaknesses and challenges of the UN also rooted from its structure, politics, and finances. These weaknesses and challenges continue to limit the effectiveness of the UN in acting quickly and fairly on global issues.
4.2.1. Bureaucracy and Inefficiency
One of the most salient criticisms against the UN, despite its good objectives, is the huge bureaucracy surrounding it. Even from a funding and budget perspective, the large bureaucracy can be excessive. Furthermore, the complexities of the organization can also lead to organizational inefficiency and ineffectiveness. Ugly manifestations of bureaucracy include the presence of red tape and other bureaucratic jargon, which clog the process of decision-making. This, in turn, can also lead to inefficiencies in the implementation of programs and activities. Overall, delaying processes serve as a bottleneck for the organization to act or respond to an emerging crisis in a timely manner
| [29] | Weiss, T. G., Carayannis, T., & Jolly, R. (2021). The United Nations and Changing World Politics. Routledge. |
[29]
. Humanitarian dilemmas have a requirement of speed. Efforts to improve the operational processes of the UN have difficulty succeeding, primarily due to the nature of the organization as a body comprising various states. Member states are expected to have differences, values, and traditions.
These differences can often mean that there is no agreement between the majority of states on how to prioritize values over others. Resource allocation and budget requests among different agencies can also contribute to the underlying bureaucracy present in the organization. More importantly, the lack of clear distinctions in the mandate of agencies will lead to multiple organizations performing similar functions. As a basic example, both WHO and UNICEF have mandates to act on children's health issues. In many cases, it can be difficult to determine whether to allocate resources to one agency over the other. Overall, inefficiencies primarily arise from the existence of overlapping mandates and red tape processes that characterize the operation of the UN.
4.2.2. Veto Power and Imbalance in the Security Council
In terms of the structural challenges, the veto power held by the five permanent members of the Security Council is deemed as one of the most controversial. The veto power in the Security Council allows its five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) to block a resolution that has the support of the majority from its other members. The Security Council's veto power permits immediate actions to be blocked, resulting in inaction on important and sensitive issues. It is especially relevant in this time that one of the controversies surrounding the role of the UN is its approach to the escalating conflict in Ukraine. The issue for many was the inaction of the Security Council as a result of the veto power from one of its members in undergoing vital and necessary action to resolve the situation. The structure of the Security Council is reflective of the post-World War realities. Nonetheless, the political realities today may have shifted, and changes reflecting the current realities have to be established. This is present in its emerging powers that are often underrepresented in the Security Council, which pushes for the demand to reform and expand its membership. However, reforms in the structure have long been acknowledged to be far from possible, as there is difficulty in putting together the needed agreement from the council
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[9]
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4.2.3. Funding Constraints and Dependence on Member Contributions
It is acknowledged that the UN highly relies on the contributions of the states towards its operations and programs. When countries on some instances delay the schedule of payments or withhold financial support, the budget of the UN remains unfulfilled, thereby restricting the operations that the UN can provide to its members. Fortunately, there is an attempt by the UN to secure more financial sources and initiatives following a 2023 funding gap. In this instance, the financial initiative is for the peacekeeping operations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
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.
For solutions to these issues, the UN has sought other means of funding and has also urged states to meet their payment duties at the earliest possible time. Recently, partnerships with private sectors and philanthropies have been initiated to reinforce common funding means.
5. Conclusion and Recommendations
5.1. Summary of Key Findings
The United Nations (UN) continues to be a powerful player on the global stage; it is a significant actor in addressing challenges to international peace, security, humanitarian efforts, and development. The present study has demonstrated that this global organization faces diverse threats and challenges, and it has the instruments for addressing them. The main conditions for the successful UN operation are the use of its powers by key players and the keenness of all parties to collaborate in solving worldwide issues. The UN operates through six principal organs and numerous specialized agencies to manage international threats and challenges. The Security Council is the most influential decision-making body possessing veto power, and critics have argued that its composition is inapplicable today since some member states enjoy the privileges of being permanent at the cost of their countries. The General Assembly is responsible for the representation of each member-state; the Peace Court promotes peaceful resolution of disputes between states
. Today, the UN makes a vital contribution to peacekeeping efforts worldwide, protection of human rights, and promotion of sustainable development. Specialized agencies and programs such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the WHO have contributed to better living standards. Nevertheless, its efficiency has been undermined by various challenges, including bureaucracy, financial dependence, and political bias. In particular, bureaucratic delays aggravated by the lack of timely and guaranteed financing have often shut the doors of the UN to those most in need. The reforms needed for the UN, especially for the Security Council's composition and veto power of permanent members, may lead to deadlocks in decision-making. The UN must undergo vital reforms to stay relevant for 21st-century threats. It plays an essential role in addressing contemporary challenges: climate change, cybersecurity, terrorism, and pandemics. However, as Nicola-Ann Hardwick indicates in his work entitled “Should the UN be reformed. How?” it becomes clear that the implementation of reform is extremely complex and widely contested by the five countries holding the veto power. Whereas a Liberal Idealist view is taken into account and seeing a realistic opportunity for change and improvement are mainly argued by scholars to still of critics; it is clear that the will of SC reform is still against their own interests and thus, of the whole UN system can only happen gradually. Quoting the former Secretary-General Kofi Annan in 2005, “No reform of the UN would be complete without reform of the Security Council”
. The SC is the UN’s main executive body with the primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security and the necessity of SC reform is widely agreed upon
| [32] | W_Nicola-Ann Hardwick, Should the UN be reformed. How? March 22 2011. |
[32]
.
5.2. Recommendations for Reforming and Strengthening the UN
The United Nations should implement reforms to make the organization more effective and efficient. Below are some of the reforms that can be implemented:
1. Security Council Restructuring
a) The veto power of the permanent member states should be limited and/or removed, especially on humanitarian issues that need immediate international solutions.
b) Developing countries should be represented more in the Security Council.
2. Minimizing Bureaucratic Procedures and Increasing Transparency
a) Administrative procedures should be less complicated to ensure timely and corruption-free execution of tasks.
b) Regular audits on financial and non-financial records should be conducted by an independent body.
3. Enhancing Peacekeeping Operations
a) The Security Council should ensure peacekeeping missions have adequate budgets, human resources, and financial resources.
b) Peacekeepers should be punished severely for any violations of duty.
4. Improving Financial Viability
a) Developing countries should be encouraged to participate in funding UN-organized programs. Countries that can cover the financing needs should cooperate.
b) The UN should seek assistance from the private sector through public-private initiatives.
5. Strengthening Adaptation Strategies
a) The UN should invest in technological advancements and data analytics to help formulate policies in times of crisis and to improve the response to humanitarian needs.
b) The UN should give more attention to addressing climate change, cybersecurity issues, and global pandemics.
Abbreviations
ECOSOC | Economic and Social Council |
ICJ | International Court of Justice |
IMF | International Monetary Fund |
OHCHR | Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights |
SC | Security Council |
UN | United Nations |
UNDP | United Nations Development Program |
UNDP | United Nations Development Program |
UNESCO | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization |
UNHRC | United Nations Human Rights Council |
UNICEF | United Nations Children's Fund |
USA | United States of America |
WHO | World Health Organization |
Author Contributions
Arakaza Dionise is the sole author. The author read and approved the final manuscript.
Conflicts of Interest
The author declares no conflicts of interest.
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APA Style
Dionise, A. (2025). The United Nations’ Functioning and Its Relevance to the Member States. Journal of Political Science and International Relations, 8(1), 31-42. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13
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Dionise, A. The United Nations’ Functioning and Its Relevance to the Member States. J. Polit. Sci. Int. Relat. 2025, 8(1), 31-42. doi: 10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13
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Dionise A. The United Nations’ Functioning and Its Relevance to the Member States. J Polit Sci Int Relat. 2025;8(1):31-42. doi: 10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13
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@article{10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13,
author = {Arakaza Dionise},
title = {The United Nations’ Functioning and Its Relevance to the Member States},
journal = {Journal of Political Science and International Relations},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {31-42},
doi = {10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13},
url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13},
eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.jpsir.20250801.13},
abstract = {The United Nations (UN) is the leading inter-governmental organization that still holds great power over issues of global governance, diplomacy, and international cooperation. The UN was created in 1945 and its main goal is to maintain international peace and security, and promote human rights and Socio-economic development. Thereupon, through the decades, the UN has addressed challenges and has adapted to the emergence of new threats to international peace and security, such as climate change, terrorism, pandemics, and all phenomena related to sustainable development. Nevertheless, despite its advantages in delivering diplomacy and humanitarian aid, the UN has been constantly criticized for inefficiency, bureaucracy, and disproportionate power to global leadership in keeping with the Security Council permanent members interests. UN is in need of restructuring to straighten its goals with its activities since the world of 1945 was very different from the world in the 21st century. Many of the structures and processes of the UN reflect a bygone era change that have happened in the last 65 years. Nicola-Ann Hardwick explains that reform of the United Nations is a much-debated subject constantly on the UN agenda as a necessary waiting in order to strengthen the UN’s effectiveness as a multilateral organization, bring more transparency to the institution and enhance its credibility. He also mentions that the main focus is on the reform of the Security Council (SC), as this is the most powerful UN institution with the most potential for bringing change. The present study aims to provide a critical performance-based assessment of the UN’s organizational structure, governance processes, and efficiency in managing global crises. Furthermore, the UN’s benefits and drawbacks, its structural reform needs for boosting governance efficiency and relevance to world challenges in the 21st century, will be evaluated. With reference to recent literature and empirical materials, this article provides a comprehensive review of the UN’s important role in contemporary international relations, assessing its impact on member states and identifying potential measures for continued success and effectiveness.},
year = {2025}
}
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TY - JOUR
T1 - The United Nations’ Functioning and Its Relevance to the Member States
AU - Arakaza Dionise
Y1 - 2025/03/26
PY - 2025
N1 - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13
DO - 10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13
T2 - Journal of Political Science and International Relations
JF - Journal of Political Science and International Relations
JO - Journal of Political Science and International Relations
SP - 31
EP - 42
PB - Science Publishing Group
SN - 2640-2785
UR - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jpsir.20250801.13
AB - The United Nations (UN) is the leading inter-governmental organization that still holds great power over issues of global governance, diplomacy, and international cooperation. The UN was created in 1945 and its main goal is to maintain international peace and security, and promote human rights and Socio-economic development. Thereupon, through the decades, the UN has addressed challenges and has adapted to the emergence of new threats to international peace and security, such as climate change, terrorism, pandemics, and all phenomena related to sustainable development. Nevertheless, despite its advantages in delivering diplomacy and humanitarian aid, the UN has been constantly criticized for inefficiency, bureaucracy, and disproportionate power to global leadership in keeping with the Security Council permanent members interests. UN is in need of restructuring to straighten its goals with its activities since the world of 1945 was very different from the world in the 21st century. Many of the structures and processes of the UN reflect a bygone era change that have happened in the last 65 years. Nicola-Ann Hardwick explains that reform of the United Nations is a much-debated subject constantly on the UN agenda as a necessary waiting in order to strengthen the UN’s effectiveness as a multilateral organization, bring more transparency to the institution and enhance its credibility. He also mentions that the main focus is on the reform of the Security Council (SC), as this is the most powerful UN institution with the most potential for bringing change. The present study aims to provide a critical performance-based assessment of the UN’s organizational structure, governance processes, and efficiency in managing global crises. Furthermore, the UN’s benefits and drawbacks, its structural reform needs for boosting governance efficiency and relevance to world challenges in the 21st century, will be evaluated. With reference to recent literature and empirical materials, this article provides a comprehensive review of the UN’s important role in contemporary international relations, assessing its impact on member states and identifying potential measures for continued success and effectiveness.
VL - 8
IS - 1
ER -
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