The United Nations is the world’s most visible global intergovernmental organization. It is a forum for deliberation, policymaking and representative action and the only one with universal membership. Its work reflects the evolving nature of international relations, from post-World War II decolonization to the Cold War’s end and the emergence of new issues like sustainable development and climate change.
The General Assembly is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations. Its 193 Member States are all represented in the Assembly, which meets once a year in September for its regular session and general debate, at which many heads of state take part. Decisions of the General Assembly are taken by a simple majority, except for decisions on peace and security matters, admission of new Members and budgetary matters, which require a two-thirds majority.
In its work, the Assembly is guided by the Charter of the United Nations. It delegates some of its functions to other bodies, such as the Economic and Social Council and the Trusteeship Council.
The Charter establishes the principle of respect for the equality of all Members of the United Nations. It guarantees the rights and responsibilities of individuals, and the right to self-determination of peoples. It also lays the foundation for international cooperation in solving global problems such as poverty, hunger, illiteracy and disease. The Charter further provides for a permanent Court of Justice to settle disputes between Members and to give advisory opinions.