Gareth Evans (former foreign min of Australia): No other body evokes as many dreams yet as many failures as UN-
United Nations (UN) was founded on principles such as Rationalism, which emphasizes resolving conflicts through negotiation rather than war, and Optimistic Progress, envisioning a better world through international cooperation. Influential ideas include Kant's "Perpetual Peace," advocating for a Pacific Union to promote lasting peace, and Woodrow Wilson's 14-Point Speech, which emphasized self-determination and collective security post-WWI.
UN Achievements
significant +ve impacts on global peace, human rights, development, and environmental protection.
Notable achievements include undertaking over 60 peacekeeping missions since 1945, aiding in the peaceful resolution of more than 170 conflicts.
crucial role in decolonization, helping over 80 countries in Asia and Africa gain independence.
1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) remains a cornerstone for safeguarding human dignity and equality.
In nuclear proliferation, the UN committed to eliminating nuclear weapons and established International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for inspections.
For refugee rehabilitation, the UN created the High Commissioner for Refugees in 1950.
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provided frameworks to tackle global issues like poverty, hunger, and environmental sustainability.
UNEP & UNFCCC address climate change & promote conservation.
Specialized UN agencies have significantly improved education, health, poverty reduction, and human rights.
World Food Programme (WFP) & Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have enhanced nutritional security, and UNESCO protects cultural and natural heritage.
Overall, the UN has made substantial contributions to global peace, development, human rights, and environmental sustainability, proving its vital role in the international community.
UN Underachievements