Transcription
World War Two led to enormous destruction, and large parts of the world lay in ruins. Therefore, the UN was established – with one main goal: To prevent war in the future. The UN is a meeting place where leaders from all countries of the world can talk to each other. In the UN, countries try to agree on which rules and agreements shall apply in the world. The most important topics discussed in the UN concern peace and security, human rights, and sustainable development. The UN's Sustainable Development Goals are the world's common work plan to eradicate poverty, combat inequality, and stop climate change by 2030. There are 17 goals and 169 sub-goals. The goals shall function as a common roadmap for all countries of the world. One of the main principles in the Sustainable Development Goals is that no one shall be left behind. The most vulnerable people must be prioritized. In the UN General Assembly, all countries, both small and large, have equal decision-making power. All member states are obligated to follow the UN's constitution, the UN Charter, where peace and human rights are central. The most powerful body in the UN is the Security Council. It has the main responsibility for preserving international peace and security. The Council has fifteen members. Of these, five are permanent, and the remaining ten seats are elected for two years at a time. But even though the UN is the most important organization working for world peace today, many believe that the UN falls short in facing many of today's conflicts. Many believe the organization must change to remain as important in the future. The UN Secretary-General has announced major reforms of the UN. Several member states have also said that they want the organization to change to be able to ensure peace, also in the future. Regardless of how one sees it – the UN is one of the world's most important meeting places and an arena for international cooperation. Even though the UN is not perfect, yes, it is the best we have! And therefore, it is so important that we work together to take care of our world.