Member states of the United Nations

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The United Nations in 1945, after World War II

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Member states of the United Nations are sovereign states that are members of the United Nations (UN), an international organization founded on 24 October 1945 to promote international cooperation and to achieve peace and security. The UN was established after World War II with the aim of preventing future wars, succeeding the ineffective League of Nations. Upon its founding, the UN had 51 member states; there are now 193, encompassing almost every recognized sovereign state in the world.

Membership Criteria

Membership in the United Nations is open to all peace-loving states that accept the obligations contained in the United Nations Charter and, in the judgment of the organization, are able and willing to carry out these obligations. The admission of any such state to membership in the United Nations will be effected by a decision of the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council.

History of Membership

The founding members of the UN were those countries that had signed the Declaration by United Nations on 1 January 1942, during World War II, and which subsequently ratified the UN Charter. Since then, the organization's membership has grown significantly, primarily through four waves of expansion during the 1950s and 1960s, the 1970s, the 1990s after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, and the early 21st century.

Rights and Obligations

Member states have the sovereign right to participate in the UN General Assembly, the Security Council (if elected), Economic and Social Council, and other United Nations bodies and agencies. They are obligated to comply with the principles of the UN Charter and to contribute to the United Nations budget.

Suspension and Expulsion

A member state's rights and privileges in the UN can be suspended if it persistently violates the Principles contained in the United Nations Charter. The General Assembly can suspend the rights and privileges of any member state under Chapter IV, Article 5 of the UN Charter. Furthermore, a member can be expelled from the UN by the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council under Chapter IV, Article 6.

Non-member Observer States

There are two permanent non-member observer states: the Holy See and Palestine. These entities have been granted observer status by the United Nations General Assembly. Observer status is granted by a General Assembly resolution and allows non-member states to participate in the work of the United Nations, but they do not have voting rights.

Challenges and Criticisms

The UN faces challenges and criticisms related to its effectiveness, bureaucracy, and the veto power held by the five permanent members of the Security Council (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States). Critics argue that the veto power can prevent the Security Council from taking necessary action to maintain international peace and security. Additionally, there are ongoing debates about the need for reform in the UN's structure and processes, including the representation in the Security Council and the methods of funding.

See Also

• United Nations Charter
• General Assembly
• Security Council
• Economic and Social Council
• International Court of Justice