Basic Principles of the United Nations Organisation (UNO)

In this post, we shall delve into the principles upon which UNO as an international organisation was founded on. At the end of this lesson, students should be able to identify these principles.

Basic Principles of the United Nations Organisation (UNO)

The United Nations Organisation (UNO) was established in 1945 with the primary goal of promoting international cooperation and maintaining peace and security in the world. The UNO was founded on several fundamental principles, which serve as the guiding principles of its operation. The basic principles on which the United Nations Organisation was founded are as follows:

1. Sovereign Equality of Member States: The UNO is based on the principle of sovereign equality among all member states. Regardless of their size, wealth, or influence, all member states have equal rights and are treated with respect and dignity.
2. Peaceful Settlement of Disputes: All member states are required to seek the peaceful resolution of their international disputes to avoid endangering international peace and security. The UNO encourages dialogue, negotiation, and mediation to address conflicts peacefully.
3. Non-Interference in International Peace and Security: The UNO ensures that both member and non-member states do not engage in activities that may jeopardize international peace and security.
4. Non-Threat or Use of Force: Member states are obligated to refrain from threatening or using force in their international relations, except in self-defense or as authorized by the UN Security Council for collective security measures.
5. Good Faith Fulfillment of Obligations: Member states are pledged to fulfill the obligations they have assumed under the UN Charter in good faith.
6. Assistance to the United Nations: Member states are obligated to provide every assistance to the United Nations in any action it takes in accordance with the charter. They must refrain from providing support to any state against which the UN is taking enforcement actions.
7. Humanitarian and Military Assistance: The United Nations provides humanitarian and military assistance to member states in times of need, such as during natural disasters, conflicts, or other emergencies.
8. Promotion of Democratic Principles: The UNO strives to promote democratic principles and good governance in member states. It observes elections, provides election materials, and discourages military rule to encourage democratic practices.