Reform of the UN After the Cold War

The need for reform and improvement is essential for any organization to effectively adapt to a changing environment, and the United Nations (UN) is no exception. In recent years, there have been calls for reform within the UN, although there is a lack of clarity and consensus regarding the nature of these reforms.

Reform within the UN primarily involves two aspects: restructuring of the organization’s mechanisms and processes, and a reassessment of the issues falling under its jurisdiction. While there is broad agreement on the necessity of both types of reform, there is disagreement on the specifics of what should be done, how it should be implemented, and when it should take place.

The focus of discussions on structural and procedural reforms often revolves around the functioning of the UN Security Council. There are demands for an expansion of both permanent and non-permanent membership in the Security Council to better reflect the contemporary geopolitical realities, particularly by increasing representation from Asia, Africa, and South America. Additionally, there are calls for improvements in budgetary procedures and administrative practices, particularly from Western countries.

Regarding the issues to be prioritized or brought within the UN’s purview, there are divergent views among member states and experts. Some advocate for a more robust role for the UN in peace and security missions, while others argue for a narrower focus on development and humanitarian work, encompassing areas such as health, education, environment, population control, human rights, gender equality, and social justice.

Examining both sets of reforms, with an emphasis on structural and procedural changes, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the UN was established in 1945 in the aftermath of World War II, reflecting the geopolitical dynamics of that era. However, the world has undergone significant transformations since then, particularly with the end of the Cold War. Major changes include the collapse of the Soviet Union, the emergence of the US as the predominant global power, the cooperative relationship between Russia and the US, the rapid growth of China and India, the economic rise of Asia, the independence of new countries, and the emergence of diverse global challenges such as genocide, civil unrest, terrorism, climate change, and epidemics.

Since the late 1980s, member states have grappled with questions about the effectiveness of the UN and its ability to address contemporary challenges adequately. Efforts have been underway to identify practical and effective reforms to enhance the UN’s functioning and ensure its relevance in addressing the complex issues of the modern world.

International organisations play a very important role in global governance and cooperation. They address worldwide issues like peace, health, and economic stability. The chapter on International Organisations explores these bodies, focusing on their structure, challenges, and impact on global affairs.

In this article, you will get detailed notes on Chapter 4 International Organisations from your Class 12 Political Science NCERT textbook.