United Nations: India sponsored Nuclear Disarmament Resolutions adopted

On November 3, 2020, two resolutions were adopted by United Nations namely “Convention on Prohibition of the use of Nuclear Weapons” and “Reducing Nuclear Danger”. The resolutions were sponsored by India.

Convention on Prohibition of the use of Nuclear Weapons

The resolution is being tabled by India since 1982. The resolution was also backed by majority of the members of United Nations. It requests the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva to commence negotiations to prohibit use of nuclear weapons under any circumstances.

Reducing Nuclear Danger

It was tabled since 1998. It draws global attention of accidental use of nuclear weapons. It underscores the need to review nuclear doctrines. Also, it calls for concrete steps to reduce risks and de-targeting of nuclear weapons.

Challenges in front of United Nations

• The conflict between US and China
• “America first” Foreign Policy of USA
• The growing divergence between European partners and the US.

Challenges in front of United Nations

• The conflict between US and China
• “America first” Foreign Policy of USA
• The growing divergence between European partners and the US.
• The recommendations made by the United Nations are non-binding
• The associated UN bodies are undermined. For instance, the Economic and Social Council is criticized to overshadow the World Bank and IMF.
• UN Financial Crisis
• Lack of personnel in UN Peacekeeping operations

Defunct UNSC

The UNSC is the main executive body that is responsible for maintaining international peace and security. However, the powers possessed by UNSC are used to shore up geopolitical interests. The Council does not reflect the distribution of economic and military power. Thu the structure of 15- member security council should be more representative and democratic.

Key United Nations reforms

• In 1997, Kofi Annan announced his plan with two reform packages “Track One” and “Track Two”.
• In 2004, models were proposed to expand United Nations Security Council
• The Human Rights Council replace the former United Nations Commission in 2006

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2020