UN System Explorer: Navigating Global Governance

Introduction to the UN System

The United Nations (UN) is the quintessential international organization, established in the aftermath of World War II with the ambitious goal of preventing future global conflicts and fostering international cooperation. Built upon the lessons learned from its predecessor, the League of Nations, the UN system encompasses a vast array of principal organs, specialized agencies, and programs, addressing a broad spectrum of global challenges from peace and security to human rights, development, and environmental protection. This section will delve into the UN's establishment, its intricate organizational structure, its pivotal role in global governance, and the ongoing debates surrounding its reform and relevance in the 21st century.

2.1.1: Establishment and Evolution

Key Milestones in UN's Genesis

1941

Atlantic Charter

Joint declaration by FDR and Churchill outlining principles for a post-war world, including collective security.

1944

Dumbarton Oaks Conference

Blueprint for the UN Security Council and General Assembly was developed by major Allied powers.

April-June 1945

San Francisco Conference

Representatives from 50 nations drafted the UN Charter.

26 June 1945

UN Charter Signed

The Charter was signed by the original 50 member states.

24 October 1945

UN Officially Came into Being

The Charter was ratified by the majority of its signatories, including the P5, marking the UN's official inception.

Purposes of UN Charter (Article 1)

To maintain international peace and security.
To develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination.
To achieve international cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character.
To be a center for harmonizing the actions of nations in the attainment of these common ends.

Principles of UN Charter (Article 2)

Sovereign Equality of all Members.
Fulfillment in Good Faith of Charter obligations.
Peaceful Settlement of Disputes.
Refrain from Threat/Use of Force.
Assistance to UN actions.
Non-interference in Domestic Affairs.

UN Membership

Original Members: 51 states (including India, which was still under British rule but had an independent delegation).

Current Members: 193 states (South Sudan being the newest member, 2011).

2.1.2: Principal Organs and Their Functions

The UN Charter established six principal organs, each with distinct roles vital for global governance.

General Assembly (GA)

Composition: All 193 member states, each with one vote.

Functions

Chief deliberative, policymaking, and representative organ.
Considers and makes recommendations on any matters within the Charter's scope.
Approves the UN budget and determines financial assessments.
Elects non-permanent UNSC members, ECOSOC members, and ICJ judges.
Appoints the Secretary-General upon SC recommendation.

GA Resolutions are generally non-binding (recommendatory) but carry political and moral weight.

Key Initiatives:

G4: India, Germany, Japan, Brazil – mutually support each other's bids for permanent UNSC seats.
Uniting for Peace Resolution (1950): Allows GA to act if UNSC is paralyzed by veto on peace & security matters.

Security Council (SC)

Composition: 15 members.

Permanent Five (P5): China, France, Russian Federation, UK, US. Hold Veto Power.
Elected Ten (E10): 10 non-permanent members elected by GA for two-year terms (5 annually).

Veto Power: Any P5 can block a resolution, leading to paralysis.

Functions & Reforms

Primary responsibility for international peace and security.
Can impose sanctions, authorize military action (Chapter VII), establish peacekeeping.
Decisions are legally binding on all member states.

SC Reforms:

Long-standing debate on expanding the UNSC to reflect contemporary global power realities, address outdated composition, and ensure equitable regional representation.

India's Bid for Permanent Membership:

Second largest population, fifth-largest economy.
Largest democracy, major PKO contributor.
Responsible nuclear power, strong advocate for multilateralism.

ECOSOC

Composition: 54 members elected by GA for three-year terms.

Functions & Scope

Central platform for discussion on sustainable development.
Coordinates economic, social, environmental work of the UN system and its specialized agencies, funds, and programs.
Conducts policy review, dialogue, and recommendations.

Subsidiary Bodies & Linkages:

Has functional commissions (e.g., Commission on the Status of Women) and regional commissions (e.g., ESCAP). Serves as the main coordinating body for numerous UN specialized agencies (WHO, UNESCO, ILO, etc.).

ICJ

Location: The Hague, Netherlands (only principal organ not in New York).

Composition: 15 judges elected by GA and SC for nine-year terms.

Jurisdiction & India's Engagement

Contentious Cases: Settles legal disputes between states (only states, not individuals/orgs) that voluntarily accept its jurisdiction.
Advisory Opinions: Provides opinions on legal questions referred by authorized UN organs/agencies.

India's Engagement:

India has been involved in several cases before the ICJ. A prominent recent case is the Kulbhushan Jadhav case against Pakistan (2019), where India sought consular access and challenged the death sentence.

Secretariat

Functions: Carries out the day-to-day work of the UN, servicing other principal organs and administering policies/programs.

Role of Secretary-General

Chief administrative officer of the Organization.
Appointed by GA upon SC recommendation for a five-year renewable term.
Serves as the UN's chief diplomat and advocate, bringing matters threatening peace to SC's attention.

Current Secretary-General: António Guterres (Portugal).

Trusteeship Council

Historical Role: Established to oversee the decolonization process of trust territories under UN supervision.

Current Status

Suspended operations in 1994 after the last trust territory, Palau, achieved independence. Its future role is subject to ongoing debate in the context of UN reform.

2.1.3: Specialized Agencies and Programs

The vast UN system includes 15 specialized agencies and numerous funds and programs, each working in specific global fields.

Major Specialized Agencies (Independent organizations linked to UN)

UNESCO

Promotes international cooperation through education, science, culture, and communication. (HQ: Paris). Recognizes World Heritage Sites.

WHO

Directs and coordinates international health work. (HQ: Geneva). Crucial during COVID-19 pandemic.

ILO

Sets international labor standards, promotes rights at work, encourages decent employment. (HQ: Geneva). Oldest UN agency (founded 1919).

FAO

Leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve food security. (HQ: Rome).

WIPO

Promotes the protection of intellectual property worldwide. (HQ: Geneva).

IMO

Global standard-setting authority for international shipping safety, security, and environmental performance. (HQ: London).

ICAO

Sets standards and recommended practices for international air navigation. (HQ: Montreal).

IAEA

Promotes peaceful uses of nuclear energy and prevents its use for military purposes. (HQ: Vienna). Nuclear watchdog.

Major Programs/Funds (Subsidiary organs, voluntary contributions)

UNICEF

Provides humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide. (HQ: New York).

UNDP

Works to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development programs. (HQ: New York). Publishes Human Development Report.

UNEP

Coordinates environmental activities within the UN system. (HQ: Nairobi).

UNHCR

Protects refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. (HQ: Geneva).

WFP

World's largest humanitarian organization addressing hunger and promoting food security. (HQ: Rome).

UN-Women

Dedicated to gender equality and women's empowerment. (HQ: New York).

India's Engagement and Contributions to UN Bodies

Founding Member: India was among the original 51 signatories to the UN Charter.
Active Participation: Consistently participates actively in all major UN organs and specialized agencies.
Financial Contributions: India is a regular contributor to the UN's regular budget and voluntarily funds various programs.
Leadership Roles: India has held numerous leadership positions in UN bodies (e.g., presidencies of GA, ECOSOC, various committees).
Peacekeeping: India is one of the largest and most consistent troop-contributing countries to UN PKOs.
Development & Human Rights: Strong advocate for South-South cooperation, sustainable development, and protection of human rights within the framework of state sovereignty.
Specific Initiatives: India has championed initiatives like the International Day of Yoga (2014) and the International Year of Millets (2023), adopted by the UN.
Hosting Offices: India hosts numerous UN offices and specialized agencies (e.g., UNDP, UNICEF, WHO Country Office).

2.1.4: UN Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs)

Definition & Principles

Definition: Operations conducted by the UN, deployed with the consent of the main parties to a conflict, to help create conditions for lasting peace.

Core Principles:

Consent of the Parties: Peacekeepers must have consent from the host country and main parties.
Impartiality: Peacekeepers must be impartial, but not neutral to UN Charter principles.
Non-use of Force: Force only in self-defence and defence of mandate (including Protection of Civilians).

Types of Peacekeeping

Traditional Peacekeeping (First Generation)

Monitoring ceasefires
Maintaining buffers between warring parties
Supervising withdrawals (e.g., UNEF I in Suez)

Multidimensional Peacekeeping (Second/Third Generation)

Protection of Civilians (PoC)
Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration (DDR)
Security Sector Reform (SSR)
Assisting electoral processes
Promoting human rights and rule of law
Supporting humanitarian assistance & nation-building

Challenges to UN Peacekeeping

Funding Shortfalls

PKOs are expensive and often face funding gaps, impacting operational effectiveness.

Vague Mandates

Unclear, ambitious, or unrealistic mandates can lead to operational difficulties and frustration.

Protection of Civilians (PoC)

A critical and often challenging mandate, especially with lightly armed peacekeepers or complex conflict dynamics.

Peacekeeper Safety

Peacekeepers operate in volatile environments, facing risks from armed groups, IEDs, and disease.

Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA)

A serious issue involving misconduct by peacekeepers, undermining the UN's credibility and mission.

Lack of Political Will

Member states sometimes lack the political will to provide sufficient resources or ensure mandates are fully implemented.

India's Contribution to UN PKOs

Largest Cumulative Contributor: India has participated in over 50 UN Peacekeeping Missions, with over 275,000 Indian peacekeepers serving to date.
Significant Deployments: Currently one of the largest troop-contributing countries (TCCs), with major deployments in MONUSCO (DR Congo), UNMISS (South Sudan), UNDOF (Golan Heights), etc.
Female Peacekeepers: India has been a pioneer in deploying all-women contingents (e.g., in Liberia), emphasizing gender inclusivity.
Casualties: Suffered significant casualties, with over 170 Indian peacekeepers making the supreme sacrifice.
Training & Capacity Building: Provides training to peacekeepers from other countries.
Policy Stance: Advocates for clearer mandates, robust rules of engagement, and greater coordination between force-contributing countries and the Security Council.

2.1.5: UN Reforms and Challenges

The UN faces mounting pressure to adapt to the realities of the 21st century to remain relevant and effective.

Need for Reform (Areas of Focus)

Membership

Most contentious, especially UNSC composition (outdated since 1945).

Veto Power

Seen as undemocratic and a source of paralysis on critical issues.

Efficiency

Bureaucracy, slow decision-making, and duplication of efforts.

Funding

Over-reliance on voluntary contributions for many programs, leading to gaps.

Relevance

Adapting to new global challenges (climate, cyber, health) not prominent in 1945.

Accountability

Ensuring accountability of UN bodies and staff for ethical conduct and performance.

Proposals for Security Council Reform

Group/Position	Key Proposal	Advocates For	Opposes
G4 (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil)	Expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories.	Representation based on current economic/political weight, geographical balance.	Status quo / limited non-permanent expansion only.
Uniting for Consensus (UfC) / "Coffee Club"	Expansion only in the non-permanent category (potentially longer terms).	Greater accountability, rotational representation.	Creation of new permanent seats with veto power.
African Union (AU) Position	Two permanent seats with veto power for African states, and two additional non-permanent seats for Africa.	Reflects Ezulwini Consensus, historical injustices, and continent's size.	Any reform not granting Africa permanent veto-wielding seats.

Human Rights Council (HRC) Evolution

From UNHRC to HRC

The UN Human Rights Commission (UNHRC, 1946) was replaced by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC, 2006) due to criticisms of politicization, selectivity, and membership issues.

Key Features of HRC

Universal Periodic Review (UPR): Reviews human rights records of all 193 UN member states periodically.
Direct election by GA members.
Stronger investigative mechanisms, including special rapporteurs.

Still faces criticisms of politicization and selectivity.

Role of UN in 21st Century Challenges

Climate Change

UNFCCC, IPCC, annual COP summits (e.g., Paris Agreement, COP28) provide the primary forum for global climate action.

Pandemics

WHO coordinates global health responses, facilitates vaccine access (COVAX Facility), and sets health guidelines (e.g., during COVID-19).

Terrorism

UNSC resolutions (e.g., 1267, 1373), Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) combat financing, radicalization, and foreign terrorist fighters.

Digital Governance

Emerging role in discussions on global norms for cyberspace, AI governance, and digital public infrastructure (ITU plays a role).

Prelims-ready Notes: Quick Facts

UN Establishment

Signed 26 June 1945 (San Francisco), came into being 24 Oct 1945.

Purposes & Principles

Peace, friendly relations, cooperation, harmonization. Sovereign equality, non-interference, peaceful settlement, no use of force.

Membership

51 original (India included), 193 current (South Sudan newest).

General Assembly (GA)

"Parliament of Nations." 1 vote per member. Resolutions non-binding. G4, Uniting for Peace Resolution (1950).

Security Council (SC)

15 members. P5 (Veto Power): China, France, Russia, UK, US. E10 (2-year terms). Resolutions legally binding.

ICJ

15 judges (9-year terms). Settles disputes between states. Gives advisory opinions. (Hague, Netherlands). Kulbhushan Jadhav case.

UN Peacekeeping Principles

Consent, Impartiality, Non-use of Force (except self-defense/mandate).

India's PKO Role

One of largest troop contributors (historically 2.75 lakh+, currently high numbers). Pioneers all-women contingents.

Summary Table: Key UN Organs & Their Roles

Organ	Composition	Key Function(s)	Output/Significance	Note
General Assembly	All 193 Member States	Deliberative, policymaking, budget approval	Non-binding resolutions, forum for debate	"Parliament of Nations," G4, Uniting for Peace
Security Council	5 Permanent (Veto), 10 Non-Permanent (2-yr)	Primary responsibility for international peace & security	Legally binding resolutions	P5 Veto power, debates on reform
ECOSOC	54 Members (3-yr term)	Coordination of economic, social, environmental work	Policy review, recommendations	Links with Specialized Agencies
ICJ	15 Judges (9-yr term)	Settles legal disputes between states	Binding judgments (for parties involved)	The Hague, only judicial organ
Secretariat	Secretary-General & staff	Day-to-day administration, diplomatic functions	Implementation of mandates	SG is Chief Administrative Officer
Trusteeship Council	P5	Oversee trust territories (historical)	Suspended operations (1994)	Successfully completed its mission

Mains-ready Analytical Notes

The UN's Enduring Relevance in the 21st Century

Argument for Relevance:

Despite challenges, the UN remains the only truly universal global forum. It provides a platform for dialogue, norm-setting (e.g., SDGs, human rights, R2P), and multilateral cooperation on issues no single state can tackle alone (climate change, pandemics, terrorism). Its peacekeeping operations, humanitarian aid (WFP, UNHCR), and development work (UNDP, UNICEF) are indispensable. It serves as a legitimizing body for international action.

Argument for Diminished Relevance/Challenges:

UNSC paralysis due to veto power (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war, Syria), democratic deficit in its structure, bureaucratic inefficiencies, funding shortfalls, rise of informal groupings (G7, G20, Quad) that bypass the UN, and increasing nationalism/protectionism in member states.

Conclusion:

The UN is not a perfect institution, but it remains indispensable. Its relevance hinges on its ability to adapt, reform, and garner the political will of its member states.

Security Council Reform: Why it's Needed and Why it's So Difficult

Need for Reform:

Outdated Composition: P5 reflects post-WWII power balance, not 21st-century realities. Major powers like India, Germany, Japan, and regional representatives from Africa and Latin America are excluded.
Democratic Deficit: The veto power is seen as undemocratic and can paralyze action, leading to selective intervention or inaction on grave issues.
Legitimacy Crisis: A non-representative Council loses legitimacy and effectiveness.

Reasons for Difficulty:

P5 Resistance: Existing permanent members are reluctant to dilute their power or veto privilege.
Inter-Group Rivalry (G4 vs. UfC): Disagreement among member states on the nature of reform (expansion of permanent vs. non-permanent seats).
Regional Rivalries: Within regions, there is reluctance to see a rival gain permanent status.
Lack of Consensus on Criteria: No universal agreement on who qualifies for a new permanent seat.

India's Stance:

India advocates for comprehensive reform (expansion of both categories, review of veto) and has consistently pushed for its own permanent membership as a rightful representative of the Global South.

UN Peacekeeping: Evolution, Challenges, and India's Role

Evolution:

From traditional military monitoring roles to complex multidimensional mandates involving civilian protection, nation-building, and humanitarian aid. This reflects the changing nature of conflicts (intra-state vs. inter-state) and a broader understanding of security.

Challenges:

Funding, mandate clarity, troop quality, protection of civilians (PoC) in asymmetrical warfare, peacekeeper safety, and addressing sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) remain persistent issues.

India's Contribution and Policy:

India is a steadfast supporter and significant contributor to UN PKOs, demonstrating its commitment to global peace. India advocates for:

Strict adherence to the core principles of consent, impartiality, and non-use of force.
Clear, realistic, and achievable mandates.
Closer consultation between UNSC, Secretariat, and Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs).
Increased use of technology in peacekeeping.
Zero tolerance for SEA.
Greater inclusion of women peacekeepers.

The UN's Role in Addressing 21st Century "Wicked Problems"

Climate Change:

The UN provides the primary negotiating platform (UNFCCC, COPs) and scientific basis (IPCC) for global climate action. It promotes green development, sustainable practices, and climate finance, highlighting its coordinating and normative role.

Pandemics:

WHO leads global health responses, provides scientific guidance, coordinates vaccine distribution (COVAX), and strengthens health systems. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed both its crucial role and its limitations in a globalized world.

Terrorism:

UNSC resolutions and specialized committees play a vital role in setting counter-terrorism norms, sanctioning terrorist entities, and facilitating international cooperation (intelligence sharing, capacity building). India, a victim of terrorism, is a strong advocate for a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).

Digital Governance:

The UN is increasingly involved in nascent discussions on norms for responsible state behavior in cyberspace, governing artificial intelligence, and promoting digital public infrastructure, recognizing these as new frontiers for global cooperation and potential conflict.

Current Affairs & Recent Developments

Russia-Ukraine War & UNSC Paralysis

Russia's veto power has repeatedly blocked critical resolutions, reigniting debates on veto reform and GA powers (e.g., Uniting for Peace Resolution).

India's UNSC Non-Permanent Term (2021-2022)

India completed its term, focusing on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and UN peacekeeping, championing a resolution on maritime security.

India's Push for UNSC Permanent Membership

During its G20 Presidency and at UN meetings, India reiterated its call for a reformed and expanded UNSC, emphasizing its qualifications.

SG's "Our Common Agenda" Report

António Guterres's report (2021/Updated 2023) outlines a vision for global cooperation and UN reform, proposing a "Summit of the Future" in 2024.

COP28 (UN Climate Change Conference)

Held in Dec 2023 in Dubai, showcasing the UN's central role. Key outcomes included operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund, first global stocktake.

International Year of Millets 2023

Celebrated globally, initiated by India and supported by the UN, highlighting India's proactive role in promoting sustainable agriculture.

UPSC Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Prelims MCQs

1. (2022) Consider the following statements regarding the "Responsibility to Protect" (R2P) doctrine:

It was endorsed by the UN General Assembly in 2005.
It applies to four mass atrocity crimes: genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity.
It explicitly permits military intervention by individual states without UN Security Council authorization.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

Hint: R2P allows for collective action, but military intervention is a last resort and subject to UNSC authorization.

2. (2017) Which of the following statements about the League of Nations is correct?

(a) The United States of America was a founding member.

(b) It had a standing army to enforce its decisions.

(c) Its primary objective was to promote collective security and prevent war.

(d) It successfully resolved the Manchurian Crisis and the Ethiopian Crisis.

Answer: (c)

Hint: The League failed on (a), (b), and (d). Its objective (c) was carried forward by the UN.

3. (2016) 'Universal Periodic Review' is an important mechanism of which of the following UN bodies?

(a) The International Monetary Fund

(b) The United Nations Security Council

(c) The United Nations Human Rights Council

(d) The International Court of Justice

Answer: (c)

Hint: UPR is a key process by which the HRC reviews the human rights records of all UN member states.

Mains Questions

1. (2021) "The global order is rapidly shifting from a unipolar to a multipolar world." Discuss the implications of this shift for India's foreign policy. (15 Marks)

Direction: While not directly about UN, this question indirectly requires understanding the UN's context within a multipolar world. Discuss how a multipolar world might empower countries like India within the UN (e.g., greater push for UNSC reform, more diverse alliances within UN bodies) or challenge it (e.g., increased internal divisions).

2. (2018) What are the main challenges to global governance in the contemporary world? Discuss the reforms necessary to make global governance institutions more effective. (15 Marks)

Direction: The UN is central to global governance. Challenges: UNSC paralysis (veto), democratic deficit, funding, adapting to NTS threats. Reforms: UNSC expansion (P5, E10), veto reform, strengthening GA/ECOOC, more inclusive representation (AU in G20, etc.), more effective response mechanisms for global challenges.

3. (2017) "India's foreign policy is best understood through the lens of strategic autonomy, which blends elements of both realism and liberalism." Discuss. (15 Marks)

Direction: India's engagement with the UN is a key aspect of its strategic autonomy. Discuss how India uses the UN platform to advance its national interest (realism, e.g., UNSC bid, counter-terrorism) while championing multilateralism, international law, and global cooperation (liberalism, e.g., climate action, peacekeeping).

UPSC Trend Analysis (Last 10 Years)

Prelims Trend

Earlier: Often direct questions on facts (agencies, HQs, dates).
Current Trend: Increasingly conceptual and application-based. Tests understanding of functions, principles, relevance of UN organs and mechanisms. Focus on linking UN's role to contemporary global challenges (climate, human rights, peacekeeping) and India's engagement. Less rote memorization, more dynamic interplay.

Mains Trend

Earlier: Straightforward descriptions of UN organs or historical role.
Current Trend: Highly analytical and critical. Requires evaluation of UN effectiveness (e.g., UNSC paralysis), analysis of reform proposals (especially UNSC, India's position), connection of UN's work to specific global challenges, assessment of India's role/contributions, and discussion of underlying theoretical debates.

Overall, candidates are expected to have a nuanced understanding of the UN's strengths, weaknesses, internal dynamics, and its evolving role in a complex, multipolar world, especially from India's perspective.

Original Practice MCQs

1. The "Uniting for Consensus" (UfC) group, often referred to as the "Coffee Club," is primarily opposed to:

(a) The expansion of non-permanent seats in the UN Security Council.

(b) The inclusion of more specialized agencies within the ECOSOC framework.

(c) The creation of new permanent members with veto power in the UN Security Council.

(d) The increasing budget allocation for UN Peacekeeping Operations.

Answer: (c)

Explanation: The "Uniting for Consensus" group, led by countries like Pakistan and Italy, specifically opposes the G4's proposal to add new permanent members with veto power to the UNSC. They prefer an expansion only in the non-permanent category.

2. Consider the following pairs regarding UN Specialized Agencies and their functions:

IAEA: Promotes peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
IMO: Regulates international civil aviation standards.
WIPO: Protects intellectual property rights globally.

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c)

Explanation: Pair 1 (IAEA) and Pair 3 (WIPO) are correct. Pair 2 is incorrect; IMO (International Maritime Organization) is for maritime safety, while ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) regulates civil aviation.

Original Practice Mains Questions

1. "The veto power held by the P5 members of the UN Security Council is both a source of its paralysis and a pragmatic necessity for its existence." Critically analyze this statement in the context of recent global conflicts and the ongoing reform debates. (15 Marks)

Key Points/Structure:

Introduction: Define UNSC & veto, state the paradox.
Veto as a Source of Paralysis: Examples (Syria, Ukraine, Israel-Palestine), impact (prevents action, undermines collective security, erodes legitimacy).
Veto as a Pragmatic Necessity: Historical context (WWII victors' compromise), ensuring P5 buy-in to UN, preventing overreach.
Reform Debates: Briefly G4 vs. UfC, AU demands. Note that removing veto is unrealistic.
Conclusion: Veto is a fundamental dilemma; a necessary evil for UN's creation/survival. Reform must balance effectiveness, representation, and great power politics.

2. Evaluate India's role and contributions to the United Nations system since its inception. In what ways does India's active engagement reflect its foreign policy objectives and its vision for a reformed global order? (20 Marks)

Key Points/Structure:

Introduction: India as founding member, commitment to multilateralism, dual role.
India's Contributions/Role: Peacekeeping (largest TCC, all-women contingents), Development & Eco. Co-op (South-South, SDGs, climate justice), Human Rights (HRC, sovereignty), Disarmament, Counter-Terrorism (CCIT push), Cultural (Yoga Day, Millets Year).
Reflection of Foreign Policy Objectives: Strategic Autonomy (independent policy), Multipolarity, Global South Leadership, National Interest (UNSC seat).
Vision for Reformed Global Order: UNSC Reform (itself as P5), Inclusive Multilateralism, Strengthening Norms.
Conclusion: India's engagement reflects rising stature, commitment to cooperation, and aspiration for a just global order via a reformed UN.