What is the role of the United Nations in world affairs?

Answer 1

Depends on your viewpoint I suppose. Some people, particularly those on the left of the political spectrum (in U.S. terms), will say that the UN helps bring together countries in an internationl forum to settle disputes and problems. The UN has programs like UNESCO and all these other programs to help feed poor people and provide some other forms of aid. Others, particularly those on the right (in U.S. terms), will say that the UN is weak and plays a limited role at best. They have no military to enforce their decisions (look at the decision to invade Iraq in 2003. The U.N. had no power to stop the U.S. from starting a preventive war because its threat were empty). Without the U.S. supporting the U.N., it does not get anywhere. It also has to solicit donations from member countries and that's around 2 billion a year, which is really paltry compared to other countries (and even companies). It has failed in the past to do much to stop genocide like in Bosnia/Croatia and Rwanda even though after the Holocaust, the U.N. said there would never be another genocide. Also just think about Darfur right now. Is the U.N. capable of doing anything to stop it unless the U.S. went with it?

Do your own research or wait for some other answers to see what others have to say.

Basically, they try to enforce world laws, and help make world peace. Keep an open mind so you can form your own opinions.

Answer 2

The United Nation plays an important role in advancing human rights, and health access for all persons. It also promotes peace by ensuring there is no violence and states are at peace with each other. The body promotes environmental conservation, and encourages the proper handling of Natural Resources. The United Nations promotes equality by ensuring that all states and people enjoy globalization.

Answer 3

The U.N. was set up to allow nations to come together discuss important issues. Sometimes these issues may be sanctions as was the case with Iraq and North Korea.