Define: U.N.

The U.N. was established to maintain international peace and security, promote social progress, and protect human rights.

The U.N. General Assembly, consisting of all member states, votes on most issues. However, important decisions require the approval of the Security Council, which consists of five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and ten non-permanent members.

The U.N. has limited enforcement capabilities. It can impose economic sanctions, authorize military interventions, or establish peacekeeping missions to enforce its decisions, but it relies on member states’ cooperation for effective implementation.

The U.N. can intervene in a country’s internal affairs if there is a threat to international peace and security. However, such interventions require Security Council approval and are often subject to political considerations.

The U.N. does not have its own criminal jurisdiction. However, it has established international criminal tribunals, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), to prosecute individuals for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression.

Yes, the U.N. can impose economic sanctions on a country to pressure it into complying with international norms or to address threats to peace and security. Sanctions can include trade restrictions, arms embargoes, and financial measures.

The U.N. can intervene in armed conflicts through peacekeeping missions. These missions aim to facilitate peace negotiations, protect civilians, and monitor ceasefires. However, the U.N. cannot intervene militarily without Security Council authorization.

The U.N. plays a crucial role in promoting and protecting human rights. It has established various human rights mechanisms, such as the Human Rights Council and treaty bodies, to monitor and address human rights violations worldwide.

The U.N. has taken significant steps to address climate change through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. It facilitates international cooperation and negotiations to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change impacts.

The U.N. can facilitate the resolution of disputes between countries through diplomatic negotiations, mediation, and arbitration. It provides a platform for dialogue and encourages peaceful settlement of conflicts. However, its effectiveness depends on the willingness of the parties involved to engage in the process.