The UN: The Structural Discrepancy Of The United Nations

The UN faces a structural discrepancy: a lack of enforcement powers. No system exists to enforce international law or to thoroughly implement systems to sustain peace. Moreover, the ambiguity of the language in UN resolutions complicates the execution of actions taken. Enforcement becomes impossible when no clear rhetoric defines such enforcement mechanisms. The UN must invent concrete enforcement measures with clear language. Such enforcement measures may include sanctions, restitution, warnings and suspensions. A measure calling for the permanent dismissal of a state is not recommended as to deter an anti-UN sentiment. The UN will strive to collaborate as effectively as possible. A variety of suspensions may be used to motivate states to …show more content…
This hierarchy may undermine the legitimacy of the UN. In times of terrorism, genocide and political unrest the international community looks to the US as a global leader. The culture and values of the UN reflect the power of US leadership in an anarchic system. American values dictate the rhetoric used in the Charter. Monetarily, the United States contributes more than any other state. Furthermore, the structure of the General Assembly closely resembles that of the US Senate (BBC). This Americanization of an international organization impedes the UN’s ability to remain pluralistic. Consequently, the fate of the UN is closely tied to the opinions of the American government, rendering the US a global leader that organizes the world in its image. Ten permanent members from multiple regions of the world would alter the cultural landscape of the UN hierarchy. Building new institutions in countries with conflict ridden histories such as South Africa is a symbolic measure to promote cultural understanding. The introduction of five new permanent members and buildings outside of the West could engender a cultural appreciation. The UN was created to bring together representatives from all over the world. Altering the organizational culture to a more ethnically representative culture deters hypocrisy and provides for a more inclusive environment. The UN will gain legitimacy as its …show more content…
Such an alliance warrants a structure featuring multiple components. A component could feature NGOs focused on political and human rights such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the International Rescue Committee. Another component could feature NGOs focused on international health and wellness such as Oxfam, Partners in Health, and Médecins Sans Frontières. The structure of the alliance is designed for efficiency and neutrality. First, the NGOs with common focus areas will collaborate. Second, the NGOs will collaborate with others outside of their issue areas to understand another dimension of the implications of UN resolutions, policies or practices. The cooperative measures of multiple NGOs will assess the resources available to the UN and strategies for better use. Evaluation from resources outside the framework of the UN maintains a neutrality essential to the strength and legitimacy of UN policies and