- The UNGA is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations.
- Established in 1945 under the UN Charter.
- It is the main deliberative, policymaking, and representative organ of the UN.
- Often called the “Parliament of Nations”.
Composition
- 193 member states → all have equal representation.
- Each member has 1 vote (irrespective of size, population, or wealth).
- Meets annually at the UN Headquarters in New York in September.
Functions & Powers
- Deliberative Role
- Discusses & makes recommendations on international peace and security (except matters under Security Council’s active consideration).
- Debates on global issues: development, human rights, international law, climate change, disarmament, etc.
- Elections & Appointments
- Elects non-permanent members of the UN Security Council.
- Elects members of ECOSOC, Human Rights Council, and other bodies.
- Appoints the UN Secretary-General on the recommendation of the Security Council.
- Budgetary Control
- Approves the UN budget.
- Assesses financial contributions of member states.
- Oversees administrative matters.
- International Law & Norm-Setting
- Initiates studies, makes recommendations, and develops international law.
- Platform for adopting key UN Declarations (e.g., Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948).
Decision-Making
- Important questions (peace & security, new members, budget, etc.): require a two-thirds majority.
- Other questions: decided by simple majority.
- Resolutions are non-binding, but carry political and moral weight.
Special Sessions & Mechanisms
- Emergency Special Sessions under Uniting for Peace Resolution (1950) when UNSC is deadlocked.
- High-Level Week (September): Global leaders deliver statements (often India’s PM, US President, etc.).
India & UNGA
- India is a founding member (since 1945).
- Actively participates in debates on climate change, terrorism, multilateral reform, Global South concerns.
- Pushes for UNSC reform, calling UNGA a platform for equitable representation.