Reforms will make UN more effective

SINCE its inception, the United Nations has been tasked with maintaining international peace and security. However, a close examination of its track record reveals significant failures, often resulting from indecision, selective application of international norms, and the influence of powerful member states.

Indecision and selective application of international norms led to grave consequences, such as in Syria, Bosnia and Rwanda.

In the ongoing Israelipalestinian conflict, the UN has failed to enforce multiple resolutions condemning Israel’s actions, including its occupation of Palestinian territories and construction of illegal settlements. The United States has consistently used its veto power to shield Israel from criticism, rendering the UN irrelevant in finding a peaceful resolution.

To restore the UN’S credibility in conflict resolution, certain reforms must be implemented. Firstly, the veto system, which frequently obstructs progress, should undergo comprehensive restructuring.

The complete halt of peace initiatives resulting from the veto power undermines the core principles upon which the UN was founded. By limiting the use of the veto in cases involving mass atrocities and humanitarian crises, paralysis in decision-making could be prevented.

Introducing term limits for permanent members would prevent the stagnation of ideas, creating an environment that fosters fresh perspectives. Such a reform would ensure that different countries have the opportunity to present their interests on the global stage, thereby cultivating a more inclusive and dynamic UN Security Council (UNSC).

Expanding the membership of the UNSC to include influential countries like India, Brazil, Germany, Japan and African nations would enhance its representativity and legitimacy. This expansion would foster a more balanced decision-making process, better reflecting the current global power structure.

Moreover, involving regional organisations and encouraging collaboration with them would provide a deeper understanding of local issues and improve the efficacy of peacekeeping efforts.

The UN must reform its internal decision-making procedures to address emerging crises swiftly and efficiently.

Implementing mechanisms that reduce bureaucratic hurdles and enable rapid responses could significantly improve the organisation’s ability to maintain peace and security worldwide. This would ensure that necessary actions are taken promptly to prevent escalation of conflicts and protect civilians.

The UN should facilitate the greater involvement of non-governmental actors, including NGOS, humanitarian organisations and civil society representatives, in conflict resolution processes. Their participation can inject diverse perspectives and solutions while exerting moral and social pressure on the warring parties to seek peaceful resolutions.

The failure of the UN to effectively maintain peace, particularly in the Israeli-palestinian conflict, emphasises the urgent necessity for reform.

By restructuring the veto system, enlarging the membership to include emerging powers, implementing term limits for permanent members, and involving non-governmental actors in the resolution process, the UN can regain relevance and effectiveness in conflict resolution.

These reforms will pave the way for a more equitable, inclusive, and efficient international community working collaboratively to safeguard global peace and security.

ASHRAFF HUSSNI Kuala Lumpur