The United Nations Charter

Allied governments discussed a new international organization during the Second World War, seeking to address difficulties encountered by the League. Preliminary negotiations outlined a structure before representatives met in San Francisco in 1945. The Charter was signed in June and entered into force in October. Smaller states sought influence while major powers demanded special security positions. Provisions on peace, rights, and development reflected the outcomes of these negotiations.

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The General Assembly provided a common forum. The Security Council assumed primary responsibility for peace, with veto power for five permanent members. The International Court of Justice addressed disputes between states, and the Economic and Social Council organized additional cooperation. Sovereign equality, restrictions on force, and procedures for security action entered the text. A continuing system of institutions, budgets, staff, and documents supported the promises made by members.

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Peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, health, and education expanded after the war. Decolonization substantially increased membership. Cold War rivalry obstructed many Security Council decisions, while specialized work continued. New states used assemblies and conventions to advance claims, and field personnel addressed refugees, food, and conflict. Capacity depended on funding, support, and implementation. The Charter established procedures whose operation continued to be shaped by national politics and conditions within the societies concerned.

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