Quick questions on The role of the United Nations in promoting world order: HSC Legal Studies

Article 7 of the Charter establishes six principal organs.

The UN system includes 15 specialised agencies, each established by treaty and linked to the UN through agreements with ECOSOC. Key examples:

The Security Council authorises peacekeeping operations under articles 40-42. As at 2026, there are around a dozen active operations (e.g. MINUSCA in the Central African Republic, MONUSCO in the DRC, UNFICYP in Cyprus, UNDOF on the Golan Heights). Peacekeepers are contributed by member states under separate UN command.

All 193 members. Each state has one vote. Decisions on important questions require a two-thirds majority (article 18).

15 members: 5 permanent (United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, China) and 10 elected by the GA for two-year terms. Has primary responsibility for international peace and security under article 24. May authorise sanctions (article 41) and use of force (article 42) under Chapter VII.

54 members. Coordinates economic, social, humanitarian and cultural activities. Oversees the specialised agencies.

Suspended operation in 1994 when Palau (the last UN Trust Territory) achieved independence.

The principal judicial organ. Hears disputes between states.

Headed by the Secretary-General (since 1 January 2017, Antonio Guterres of Portugal).