Information about the United Nations
History
The United Nations Charter was drawn up by the representatives of 50 countries at the United Nations Conference on International Organisation, which met in San Francisco from 25 April to 26 June 1945. Delegates deliberated on the basis of proposals worked out by the representatives of China, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom and the United States at Dumbarton Oaks from August to October, 1944. The Charter was signed on 26 June 1945 by the 50 founding members, and entered into force on 24 October 1945 following its ratification by China, France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom and the United States (the "Permanent Five" members) plus a majority of other signatories.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the United Nations (UN), as laid down in its Charter, are to avoid the recurrence of violent conflicts, affirm fundamental human rights, guarantee respect for international law and improve living standards across the globe.
Membership
The UN is the only international forum in which all nations are entitled to representation and can participate in addressing international issues. Current membership stands at 192 states.
United Nations Security Council Sanctions
The United Nations was formed with a view to establishing a collective security system to deal with disputes by peaceful and legal means. Under the United Nations Charter, the Security Council is the body charged with responsibility for maintaining global peace and security. The UN Charter provides for a flexible and graduated response to international peace and security issues. More...
The UN System
Brief description of the principal organs which comprise the United Nations.
Australia and the United Nations
Australia firmly believes that global problems require global solutions. As the only truly global organisation, the United Nations plays a critical role in addressing the challenges that no country can resolve on its own. Australia was a founding member of the United Nations and played a leading role in drafting the Charter articles on the Security Council. It has had a long and active engagement with the organisation. More...