United Nations

The Covenant of League of Nations was adopted shortly after the Paris Peace Conference in January 1919, in response to the destruction caused by World War I and the desire for an international organization dedicated to maintaining peace.

On 10 January 1920, the League of Nations formally came into being with the Covenant of the League of Nations taking effect.

When war broke out in 1939, the League of Nations closed down, unable to prevent the outbreak of World War II.

The London Declaration was signed on June 12, 1941 by representatives of various Allied nations, expressing a vision for a postwar world order. This declaration laid the groundwork for the establishment of the United Nations.

The Inter-Allied Council meeting in London on 24 September 1941 saw the adoption of common principles of policy by eight governments in exile, the Soviet Union, and representatives of the Free French Forces.

On 29 December 1941, Roosevelt, Churchill, and Harry Hopkins drafted the Declaration by United Nations, incorporating Soviet suggestions and emphasizing religious freedom.

On January 1, 1942, representatives of 26 nations at war with the Axis powers gathered in Washington to sign the Declaration of the United Nations, pledging to work together against the Axis and not to seek a separate peace.

In October 1943, representatives from the United Kingdom, the United States of America, China, and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics met in Moscow and signed the Moscow Declaration. The document recognized the necessity of establishing a general international organization for the maintenance of international peace and security.

From 21 September to 7 October 1944, the Dumbarton Oaks Conference saw the formulation and negotiation of proposals for the aims, structure, and functioning of the new international organization.

Representatives of China, UK, USSR, and US met at Dumbarton Oaks to discuss the structure of a new international organization dedicated to maintaining peace and security.

The United Nations was established in 1945 to promote international cooperation and maintain peace and security among nations.

In 1945, an international organization was established by 51 countries with the goal of maintaining peace through global cooperation and collective security. This organization is known as the United Nations.

At the Yalta Conference in February 1945, Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin resolved the Security Council voting procedure as outlined in the Dumbarton Oaks plan.

By 1 March 1945, 21 additional states had signed the Declaration by the United Nations, showing growing international support for the organization.

In April 1945, during the Conference to establish the United Nations in San Francisco, representatives of Brazil and China suggested the creation of an international health organization and a conference to develop its constitution.

Representatives of 50 countries gathered at the United Nations Conference on International Organization in San Francisco, California from April 25 to June 26, 1945. During this conference, the UN Charter was drafted and signed, creating the United Nations with the aim of preventing another world war.

The United Nations Charter is approved on June 25, 1945.

The San Francisco Conference held in 1945 was a crucial event where the United Nations Charter was drafted and signed, establishing the foundation for the United Nations as we know it today.

On June 26, 1945, delegates from fifty nations sign the United Nations charter, establishing the international organization.

On July 28, 1945, the UN Charter was approved by a vote of 89 to 2.

The United Nations was established on October 24, 1945, after the end of World War II. It replaced the League of Nations and aimed to promote international cooperation and maintain peace and security.

The United Nations was founded on October 24, 1945, after World War II to promote international cooperation and prevent future conflicts through diplomacy and collective security.

The United Nations was established in 1946 to promote international cooperation and prevent future conflicts. It replaced the League of Nations.

The inaugural meeting of the General Assembly took place in Westminster Central Hall, London.

The position of Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations was established on February 14, 1946, to assist the Secretary-General in various administrative and managerial tasks.

On 15 February 1946, the Economic and Social Council of the UN instructed the Secretary-General to convoke a conference.

A Technical Preparatory Committee met in Paris from 18 March to 5 April 1946 and drew up proposals.

The League of Nations formally dissolved itself and transferred its mission to the United Nations.

The United Nations was established on October 24, 1946, replacing the League of Nations. It is an international organization aimed at promoting peace, security, and cooperation among countries.

On October 20, 1947, the UN flag was adopted, symbolizing the unity and representation of the United Nations.

On November 29, 1947, the UN committee agreed to partition Palestine into the State of Israel, leading to tensions and conflicts in the region.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, setting out fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

Australian politician Dr. HV Evatt assumed the role of President of the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. During his tenure, he oversaw the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights within the General Assembly, further solidifying Australia's commitment to human rights advocacy on the global stage.

Construction of the UN headquarters in New York City began on 14 September 1948, marking the physical establishment of the organization's central hub.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948, setting out fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

John Boyd Orr was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1949 for his work with the United Nations, particularly for campaigning for an adequate diet for the people during and after the First World War.

On July 18, 1949, India and Pakistan signed the UN-sponsored Karachi Agreement, establishing a cease-fire line monitored by the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan.

A Security Council resolution was passed authorizing a US-led coalition to repel the North Korean invasion of South Korea in the absence of the Soviet Union.

The UN headquarters officially opened on 9 January 1951, although construction was not formally completed until 9 October 1952.

In 1952, the United Nations Headquarters was constructed, serving as the official headquarters for the international organization dedicated to promoting peace, security, and cooperation among countries.

The UN headquarters in New York City was completed on 9 October 1952, providing a permanent location for the organization's operations.

The United Nations Building in New York City was completed on October 24, 1952, and serves as the headquarters for the United Nations.

In 1953, the United Nations headquarters opened in New York City, equipped with 33 Otis elevators.

Dag Hammarskjöld was elected as the Secretary-General of the United Nations on April 10, 1953. He served in this role until his tragic death in 1961.

The Korean Armistice Agreement was signed to cease hostilities in the Korean War.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in both 1954 and 1981, making it one of the two recipients to receive the prestigious award twice, in recognition of their dedication to assisting and protecting refugees worldwide.

In 1956, a Security Council draft resolution called on the Soviets to withdraw from Hungary, but Moscow vetoed the resolution.

On November 4, 1956, the United Nations voted in favor of Lester B. Pearson's peacekeeping resolution to establish the first UN peacekeeping force. The force aimed to ensure access to the Suez Canal for all and facilitate an Israeli withdrawal from the Sinai Peninsula.

Canadian Secretary of State for External Affairs, Lester B. Pearson, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for his pivotal role in organizing the UN's first peacekeeping force during the Suez Crisis.

Ruth B. Rusell's book delves into the history of the United Nations Charter, focusing on the involvement of the United States from 1940 to 1945.

The United Nations General Assembly adopts the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, recognizing children's rights to education, play, a supportive environment, and health care.

The UN established UNOC, the largest military force of its early decades, to bring order to Katanga in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Dag Hammarskjöld, one of the UN's most effective secretary-generals, died in a plane crash while travelling to meet rebel leader Moise Tshombe during the Congo conflict.

A pictorial history book by Jacob A. Rubin from 1962, visually documenting the United Nations.

In 1963, Cyprus gained independence from the UK, leading to a civil war between Greeks and Turks. A UN peacekeeping force of 6000 was sent to act as a buffer.

The Group of 77 (G77) is a coalition of developing nations established to promote collective economic interests and enhance negotiating power at the UN. It was founded by 77 countries in June 1964.

The United Nations India–Pakistan Observation Mission (UNIPOM) was set up by the Security Council in September 1965 to oversee the ceasefire and withdrawal of armed personnel along the India–Pakistan border.

United Nations Member States promise to uphold equal rights, including education and protection, for all children through the International Covenants on Civil and Political Rights and on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

In 1967, the Security Council called for a cease-fire in the war between Israel and Arab states like Egypt, Jordan, and Syria under Resolution 242, but it failed to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Treaty of Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) is signed by various countries, aiming to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. Eventually, 189 countries become signatories, with notable exceptions like India, Israel, North Korea, and Pakistan.

The International Labour Organization received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969 for its significant contributions to advancing social justice and promoting decent work conditions worldwide.

The People's Republic of China was given the Chinese seat on the Security Council, replacing the Republic of China, with opposition from the United States.

On October 26, 1971, the People's Republic of China (PRC) replaced Taiwan in the United Nations, gaining recognition as the legitimate representative of China.

Thant urges for an end to bitterness in the context of the United Nations.

Thant calls for a significant step forward in voting and urges an end to bitterness.

The first United Nations environment conference is held in Stockholm, marking a significant step towards global environmental awareness and cooperation.

Japan officially becomes a member of the United Nations, solidifying its position in the global diplomatic arena.

The United Nations Buffer Zone in Cyprus was extended in 1974 after the ceasefire of 16 August 1974, following the Turkish invasion of Cyprus and the de facto partition of the island.

A resolution declaring Zionism to be a form of racism was passed by a bloc comprising the Soviet Union and Third World nations, despite American and Israeli opposition.

In 1976, the General Assembly of the United Nations created the Joint Inspection Unit to identify inefficiencies within the UN system.

In 1977, the United Nations imposes a mandatory arms embargo against South Africa as a measure to address apartheid and promote peace and stability in the region.

In 1978, UNESCO identified 12 world heritage sites for special protection due to their outstanding value. This initiative set the stage for the preservation of important cultural and natural landmarks worldwide.

In March 27, 1978, UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim issued an appeal for a general cease-fire in Southern Lebanon, aiming to halt the ongoing conflicts in the region. Major-General Emmanuel Erskine conveyed this appeal to Mr. Yasser Arafat during a meeting in Beirut.

In 1979, the UN General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, aiming to protect and promote women's rights globally. This convention was a significant step towards gender equality and empowerment.

In 1979, the Republic of China (ROC) withdrew from the United Nations, recognizing the People's Republic of China (PRC) as the only legitimate representative of China to the global body.

The Convention on the Law of the Sea is established in 1982, setting out the rights and responsibilities of nations in their use of the world's oceans and promoting marine conservation.

The Yearbook of the United Nations for 1985 was published in 1989 by the United Nations Department of Public Information.

In 1987, the Montreal Protocol is adopted, aiming to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of substances that are responsible for ozone depletion.

In 1988, the United Nations peacekeeping forces, also known as Blue Helmets, were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts in maintaining peace and security in regions of conflict.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child, a human rights treaty setting out the civil, political, economic, social, health, and cultural rights of children, was adopted by the United Nations in 1989.

The United Nations General Assembly adopts the Convention on the Rights of the Child, a significant milestone in human rights history. The Convention emphasizes the importance of children's rights in various aspects of society and sets minimum standards for their protection.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child is adopted in 1990, emphasizing the protection and promotion of the rights of children worldwide, along with the World Summit on Children.

On 20 September 1990, Liechtenstein became the 160th member state of the United Nations, solidifying its presence on the global stage.

In 1991, the United Nations authorized a US-led coalition to repulse Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, marking a significant military intervention by the UN.

In 1992, Albania became a member of the United Nations, gaining representation and participation in the global organization.

In March 1992, under the leadership of Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations was created to enhance the UN's capacity for peacekeeping and preventive diplomacy.

In 1993, the United Nations Commission on Human Rights was established to address and oversee human rights issues within the UN. This commission was created following the recommendations of the World Conference on Human Rights held that year.

In 1993, Andorra became a member of the United Nations, gaining a voice in the international community through this global organization.

On April 8, 1993, the Republic of North Macedonia joined the United Nations, gaining international recognition and participation in global diplomacy.

In 1994, the UN Assistance Mission for Rwanda failed to intervene in the Rwandan genocide, leading to widespread criticism and condemnation of the UN's inaction during the humanitarian crisis.

During the Rwandan Genocide in 1994, the United Nations failed to effectively intervene and stop the mass killings despite being aware of the situation. This inaction contributed to the escalation of violence and loss of lives.

On April 14, 1995, the United Nations authorized the oil-for-food programme, allowing Iraq to trade oil for essential supplies like food and medicine to meet the humanitarian needs of its citizens.

The United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 1035 on December 21, 1995, establishing the UN Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina to help maintain peace and stability in the region.

In September 1996, the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty was adopted by the UN General Assembly as a non-binding resolution, aiming to prevent nuclear weapon testing worldwide.

The United Nations imposes a ban on nuclear weapons testing.

An overwhelming majority of United Nations members, including the United States, agree to a treaty banning all nuclear weapons testing.

The Kyoto Treaty was adopted on December 11, 1997, to implement the UN Framework Convention for Climate Change, setting targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

At the Millennium Summit in September 2000, world leaders adopted the UN Millennium Declaration, creating a global partnership to reduce extreme poverty. The Millennium Development Goals set time-bound targets, including specific health goals, to be achieved by 2015.

In 2001, the United Nations as a whole was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, shared with then Secretary-General Kofi Annan, in recognition of their efforts towards global peace and security.

On November 14, 2001, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 1378, which called for a central role for the United Nations in establishing a transitional administration in Afghanistan. The resolution also invited member states to send peacekeeping forces to promote stability and aid delivery.

On March 13, 2002, the UN Security Council passed a resolution for the first time calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, aiming for a two-state solution.

The UN Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 1441 on November 8, 2002, drafted by the US and UK, which later led to debates on the authorization of the invasion and occupation of Iraq.

North Korea officially informed the Security Council of its decision to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, prompting UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan to express regret and urge Pyongyang to reconsider.

On March 5, 2003, France, Russia, and Germany declared their opposition to a new US-UK draft resolution authorizing war on Iraq, reflecting global divisions on the issue.

On March 18, 2003, President George W. Bush issued an ultimatum for Saddam Hussein and his sons to leave Iraq within 48 hours, leading to increased tensions and the eventual invasion of Iraq.

The Security Council adopts resolution 1483, recognizing the US and Britain's occupation of Iraq and lifting economic sanctions. The UN's role in the transition to a democratic government is limited.

A suicide attack on the UN headquarters in Baghdad kills Sergio Vieira de Mello, the top UN special envoy in Iraq.

In 2004, the United Nations faced allegations of widespread corruption in the Oil-for-Food Programme, leading to an independent inquiry and raising concerns about the involvement of UN officials, including Kojo Annan.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon addresses the UN General Assembly, recognizing Palestinian rights but asserting Israel's claim to united Jerusalem and commitment to combating terrorism.

A UN probe links Syria to the murder of Rafik al-Hariri, the late Lebanese prime minister, in Beirut. The incident resulted in the death of 22 other individuals.

The General Assembly establishes the Human Rights Council to address human rights violations and promote respect for fundamental freedoms.

The UN Security Council unanimously passed a resolution urging the DPRK to return to the Six-Party Talks, abandon nuclear weapons, and comply with NPT and IAEA safeguards.

The Security Council unanimously approves a proposal aimed at ending the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a significant step towards peace in the region.

The Security Council establishes the UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) for an initial six-month period, to support peace and stability in the region.

After extensive consultation with UN ambassadors, Ban dropped his proposal to combine political affairs and disarmament. Instead, he pressed ahead with reforms on job requirements at the UN, which included splitting the peacekeeping operation into one group handling operations and another handling arms. This move was popular in other UN offices around the world and lauded by UN observers.

Taiwan's President Chen Shui-bian wrote to request admission into the UN by the name Taiwan, but Ban rejected the request, stating that Resolution 2758 defined Taiwan as part of China. This decision reflected the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Taiwan's status and its relationship with China.

The UN establishes a peacekeeping mission in Darfur, known as UNAMID, in cooperation with the African Union to address the conflict and humanitarian crisis in the region.

On March 31, 2008, a Security Council resolution was passed to lift the arms embargo on the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In 2010, the United Nations suffered its worst loss of life in history when 101 personnel died in the Haiti earthquake, highlighting the dangers faced by UN workers in humanitarian crises.

The recommendation for the re-appointment of an individual, possibly within the United Nations, as indicated by the reference to S/RES/1987 (2011) and S/PV.6556 of 17 June 2011.

The re-appointment of an individual to a position, likely within the United Nations, as indicated by the reference to A/RES/65/282 and A/65/PV.101 of 21 June 2011.

South Sudan became the most recent addition to the United Nations on July 14, 2011, bringing the total number of UN member states to 193. The UN Charter outlines the rules for membership acceptance.

The article 'On the Origins of the United Nations: When and How Did it Begin?' by Klaas Dykmann explores the inception of the United Nations, providing insights into the timeline and circumstances surrounding its formation.

A 4-volume collection edited by Andrew W. Cordier and Wilder Foote, containing public papers of the Secretaries General of the United Nations, published by Columbia University Press.

In response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, the United Nations established its first emergency health mission, UNMEER, in 2014. The mission provided critical resources to combat the outbreak and marked a significant step in global health emergency response.

Over 350 landmarks in 60 countries were illuminated in blue to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the United Nations.

In 2016, the United Nations held its first public debate between candidates for the position of secretary-general in an effort to enhance transparency. This event marked a significant step towards engaging the global community in the selection process.

The United Nations Security Council officially nominated António Guterres for the position of Secretary-General in a formal resolution on October 6, 2016, after an informal secret ballot where he gained significant support.

António Guterres was formally elected by the United Nations General Assembly in its 71st session on October 13, 2016, marking a significant step in the process of his appointment as Secretary-General.

On 23 December 2016, the United States, under the Obama Administration, abstained from United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334, effectively allowing it to pass.

On 1 January 2017, Portuguese diplomat António Guterres became the ninth secretary-general of the United Nations. Guterres has outlined key goals for his administration, including a focus on diplomacy, peacekeeping efforts, and organizational responsiveness to international needs.

On 6 January 2017, the Israeli government withdrew its annual dues from the United Nations, totaling $6 million in United States dollars.

António Guterres appointed an eight-member independent panel to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of UN-Habitat following the adoption of the New Urban Agenda.

Secretary-General António Guterres cautioned the Trump administration that disengaging from international issues could lead to replacement by other countries.

The UN Security Council discusses Iran's compliance with Resolution 2231, acknowledging Iran's efforts amidst challenges from the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA. The U.S. announces plans to reimpose ballistic missile restrictions on Iran.

On 13 June 2019, the United Nations signed a Strategic Partnership Framework with the World Economic Forum to jointly accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This partnership aimed to enhance collaboration between the two organizations for sustainable development goals.

Information about the United Nations University and its research and policy support for environmental risk reduction, available on the Springer website.

The United Nations Secretary-General releases a report supporting the 2015 nuclear deal and modifying UN sanctions on Iran. The report highlights instances of possible Iranian non-compliance with resolution provisions.

The United Nations was established on October 24, 1945, to promote international cooperation and maintain peace and security.

On February 25, 2022, Russia used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block a resolution against its invasion of Ukraine, highlighting a significant weakness in the UNSC's functioning.

The United Nations organizes high-level summits to address global challenges and foster international cooperation. A significant summit is scheduled for 2023.

Review of significant events and themes during the 78th United Nations General Assembly.

Karen Smith highlights the reasons behind the United Nations' failures in addressing victims of atrocity crimes.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres invoked Article 99 of the Charter of the United Nations for the first time, addressing matters threatening international peace and security.

The website was last updated on December 29, 2023 at 2:09 PM.

The United Nations budget for the year 2024 was $3.59 billion, excluding additional resources donated by member states.

Iran's attack on Israel was considered a legal response to Israel's illegal attack, according to Marjorie Cohn's article on Truthout. The action was deemed lawful self-defense in accordance with international humanitarian law.