United Nations (UN)

An international organisation founded in 1945 aimed at promoting peace, security, and cooperation among countries worldwide.

The United Nations (UN) was established after the Second World War with the primary objective of preventing future conflicts on a global scale. It serves as a platform where representatives from nearly every country can come together to discuss and address international issues, ranging from peacekeeping and conflict resolution to humanitarian aid, environmental protection, and human rights advocacy. The UN operates through various specialised agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), each focusing on specific global challenges. The UN’s most well-known body is the Security Council, which has the authority to make binding decisions regarding international peace and security, including the deployment of peacekeeping forces. Another key body is the General Assembly, where all member states have equal representation. The UN also plays a significant role in setting international standards, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to address global challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change.