[Answered] Critically analyze the proposition that the UN has failed in its primary goal of peace and security. Justify the necessity of reforming multilateralism to address contemporary global challenges.

Introduction

Despite being created in 1945 to “save succeeding generations from the scourge of war”, the UN struggles to prevent conflicts — evident from failures in Rwanda, Iraq (2003), and Gaza, demanding urgent reform of multilateralism.

Has the UN failed in its primary goal of peace and security? — A Critical Analysis

The United Nations was envisioned to maintain international peace and security (Article 1, UN Charter). Yet, its seven-decade record shows a widening gap between mandate and outcomes.

Successes — but limited

1. Peacekeeping Operations: UN peacekeepers helped stabilise Cambodia (1993), led elections in Namibia (1989), and intervened in Kosovo (1999), demonstrating capacity in post-conflict reconstruction.
2. Norm-building: Adoption of Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) and establishment of International Criminal Tribunal for Yugoslavia (ICTY) show UN’s role as a moral force. However, isolated successes cannot overshadow structural paralysis.

Major failures in preventing conflicts

1. Genocide in Rwanda (1994): Over 8 lakh people killed; UN peacekeepers withdrew rather than intervening.
2. Srebrenica Massacre (1995): 8,000 Bosnian Muslims killed under UN protection.
3. Iraq invasion (2003): UNSC could not prevent unilateral US invasion, undermining collective security.
4. Ongoing crises in Gaza and Ukraine (2022-24): Veto-wielding P5 countries block action based on geopolitical interests.

As António Guterres warned, “It’s reform or rupture.” The UN’s inability to stop these conflicts highlights systemic dysfunction.

Structural Flaws Hindering Effectiveness

1. Veto Power in Security Council: P5 used veto 295+ times (Russia 161, US 95). Veto paralyzes action even in humanitarian crises.
2. Democratic Deficit: 193 nations have “one nation–one vote”, but real power rests with five.
3. Representation Gap: UNSC excludes emerging powers — India, Japan, Germany — despite representing major global population and economic share. The UN’s functioning reflects post-1945 power structures, not 21st-century multipolar reality.

Why Multilateralism Needs Reform — The Case for New Global Governance

1. Rise of new power centres: India, China, EU, African Union reflect multipolarity.
2. New global threats:

• Climate change — 2023 was the hottest year on record (WMO data).
• Cybersecurity and AI governance — unaddressed domains.
• Pandemics — COVID-19 exposed WHO and UN coordination limitations.

3. Global South marginalization: Africa has 54 countries but no permanent seat on UNSC. India contributes largest number of peacekeepers but lacks permanent membership.

Reforms needed

India advocates reformed multilateralism, visible in its G20 presidency theme: “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”

Conclusion

Institutions must adapt to power shifts. Reformed multilateralism — democratic, inclusive, responsive — is essential for lasting peace, ensuring the UN becomes effective rather than ceremonial.