Aims and Objectives Of UN

The United Nations (UN) is an intergovernmental organization established on October 24,

1945, after the end of World War II, with the primary aim of promoting international
cooperation and maintaining peace and security among nations. Its objectives are outlined
in its founding charter, the United Nations Charter, and they encompass a wide range of
issues related to human rights, economic development, social progress, environmental
sustainability, and international law. In this comprehensive explanation, we will delve into
the aims and objectives of the United Nations, focusing on its various key aspects and
functions.

1. Maintenance of International Peace and Security:

One of the primary aim of the United Nations is to maintain international peace and
security. The organization seeks to prevent conflicts between nations and facilitate the
resolution of disputes through peaceful means. The UN Security Council, comprising five
permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and
ten non-permanent members, plays a crucial role in this regard. It can impose sanctions,
authorize peacekeeping missions, and even deploy military forces to address threats to
peace and acts of aggression.

2. Promotion of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms:

The UN is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms
worldwide. It seeks to prevent discrimination, torture, slavery, and other forms of human
rights abuses. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the UN
General Assembly in 1948, serves as a cornerstone in the promotion of human rights, setting
out the fundamental rights and principles that all individuals should enjoy regardless of their
nationality, race, or gender.

3. Sustainable Development:
In 2015, the UN adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a comprehensive
plan aimed at eradicating poverty, fostering social inclusion, and promoting environmental
sustainability. The agenda consists of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169
targets that address a wide range of global challenges, including poverty, hunger, education,
health, gender equality, clean water, climate change, and biodiversity conservation. The UN
supports and coordinates efforts by member states to achieve these goals through various
initiatives, partnerships, and capacity-building programs.

4. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief:

The UN plays a critical role in providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to
populations affected by natural disasters, conflicts, and other crises. The United Nations
Office for the
Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) coordinates relief efforts and ensures timely
and effective aid reaches those in need. UN agencies like UNICEF, the World Food
Programme (WFP), and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
(UNHCR) work on the ground to address urgent humanitarian needs and provide essential
services.

5. Promotion of International Law and Justice:

The UN is committed to upholding international law and promoting justice on a global scale.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), based in The Hague, is the principal judicial organ of
the UN and settles legal disputes between states. The UN also facilitates the creation of
international conventions and treaties, covering a wide range of issues, such as arms control,
environmental protection, and human rights.

6. Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women:

The UN has been a strong advocate for gender equality and the empowerment of women. It
actively promotes policies and initiatives that address gender disparities, combat gender-
based violence, and ensure women's participation in decision-making processes at all levels.
UN Women, a dedicated agency, works towards gender equality and the empowerment of
women, supporting women's rights and gender-responsive programs worldwide.

7. Environmental Protection and Climate Change:

Recognizing the urgent need to address environmental challenges, the UN plays a vital role
in promoting environmental protection and sustainable development. The UN Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement are international treaties
aimed at combating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The UN
Environment Programme (UNEP) works to coordinate environmental efforts and foster
cooperation among nations in addressing global environmental issues.

8. Eradication of Poverty and Hunger:

The UN is committed to eradicating poverty and hunger through various initiatives, including
the implementation of the SDGs. The World Bank and other specialized agencies collaborate
with the UN to support economic development and poverty reduction in developing
countries, providing financial and technical assistance for infrastructure projects, healthcare,
education, and agricultural development.

9. Promotion of Education and Cultural Exchange:

The UN recognizes the importance of education and cultural exchange in fostering
understanding, tolerance, and peace among nations. UNESCO, the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is dedicated to promoting education,
protecting cultural heritage, and advancing scientific cooperation. The UN promotes
initiatives that aim to enhance global knowledge exchange and preserve cultural diversity.

10. Disarmament and Non-Proliferation:

The UN actively promotes disarmament and non-proliferation efforts to prevent the spread
of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear
Weapons (NPT) is one of the central agreements aiming to curb nuclear weapons
proliferation and promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy. The UN also fosters dialogue and
negotiations to reduce conventional arms sales and combat illicit arms trafficking.

11. Advancement of Democracy and Good Governance:

The UN supports efforts to strengthen democratic governance and the rule of law
worldwide. It assists in the organization of free and fair elections, provides technical support
to build strong institutions, and promotes transparency, accountability, and respect for
human rights in the governance process.

12. Health and Disease Prevention:

Health and disease prevention are vital aspects of the UN's work. The World Health
Organization (WHO), a specialized agency of the UN, leads global efforts to address health
challenges, including infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and access to essential
healthcare services. The UN has been at the forefront of efforts to combat pandemics, such
as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic.

13. Protection of Children's Rights:

The UN places a strong emphasis on protecting the rights of children, ensuring their well-
being, and safeguarding them from exploitation and abuse. The Convention on the Rights of
the Child (CRC) is an international treaty that sets out the rights and responsibilities of
children and serves as a guiding framework for policies and programs to support children's
development and protection.

14. Preservation of Cultural Heritage:

Cultural heritage is an essential part of human history and identity. The UN actively
promotes the preservation and protection of cultural heritage sites and traditions. UNESCO's
World Heritage List includes cultural and natural sites of outstanding universal value, which
are safeguarded for future generations.

Agencies of UN
 UNESCO WHO
 UNICEF
UNESCO:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a
specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) founded on November 16, 1945. Its core
mission is to promote peace and security through international collaboration in the fields of
education, science, culture, and communication. UNESCO's work aims to build a more just,
inclusive, and sustainable world, preserving cultural heritage, advancing education,
promoting scientific knowledge, and fostering freedom of expression.

History and Development:

The idea of creating an international organization dedicated to education, science, and
culture emerged during World War II, when it became evident that the advancement of
these areas was essential for maintaining peace and preventing conflicts. The San Francisco
Conference in 1945 saw the birth of the United Nations, and in November of the same year,
UNESCO was established as one of its specialized agencies.
The founders of UNESCO believed that if countries could collaborate in intellectual and
cultural spheres, it would enhance mutual understanding and respect, thereby reducing the
likelihood of future wars. The organization started with 37 member states, and today it has
193 member countries and 11 associate members.

Role of UNESCO:
1.Education:
UNESCO emphasizes the right to quality education for all, with a particular focus on
promoting access to education for girls and women, marginalized communities, and those in
conflict-affected areas. It supports educational policies, provides teacher training, and
fosters innovation in education.

2.Science:
UNESCO promotes international scientific cooperation, the exchange of knowledge, and the
application of science for sustainable development. It addresses global challenges such as
climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity through scientific research and
collaboration.

3.Culture:
UNESCO works to safeguard cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, such as
monuments, archaeological sites, languages, and traditional practices. It supports cultural
diversity and the preservation of endangered languages and cultural expressions.

4.Communication and Information:

UNESCO advocates for press freedom, access to information, and the use of communication
technologies to bridge the digital divide and promote free expression.
UNESCO's NGO Partners
UNESCO collaborates with numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to amplify its
impact and extend its reach. These NGOs work closely with UNESCO on various projects and
initiatives related to education, culture, science, and communication. They often play an
essential role in implementing UNESCO's programs at the grassroots level, bringing
expertise, local knowledge, and community engagement to the table.
Some well-known UNESCO NGO partners include the International Council of Museums
(ICOM), the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), the World Federation
of the Deaf (WFD), and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).

Activities and Programs

1. World Heritage Sites:
UNESCO's World Heritage program identifies and protects sites of outstanding cultural and
natural importance worldwide. These sites are deemed to have "universal value" and are
preserved for future generations.

2. Education for All:

UNESCO's Education for All (EFA) initiative aims to ensure that every child, youth, and adult
has access to quality education and learning opportunities.

3. Science for Peace:

UNESCO promotes the role of science in addressing global challenges and sustainable
development. It sponsors international scientific programs and encourages cooperation
among scientists from different countries.

4. Intangible Cultural Heritage:

UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage program safeguards living traditions, rituals, music,
dance, and oral histories that are passed down through generations.

5. Press Freedom and Safety of Journalists:

UNESCO works to protect journalists and ensure press freedom globally, advocating for an
environment where media professionals can report freely and without fear of persecution.

UNESCO and Pakistan

Pakistan became a member of UNESCO on September 14, 1949. Since then, UNESCO has
been actively involved in various projects and initiatives in the country.

1. Preservation of Cultural Heritage:

Pakistan is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Mohenjo-Daro, Taxila,
and the historical ensemble of Lahore. UNESCO collaborates with the Pakistani government
to preserve and protect these cultural treasures for future generations.

2. Promoting Education:
UNESCO supports Pakistan in its efforts to enhance access to quality education, particularly
for girls and marginalized communities. It assists in formulating educational policies,
improving teacher training, and developing innovative educational practices.

3. Natural Sciences and Biodiversity:

Pakistan, with its diverse landscapes and ecosystems, benefits from UNESCO's scientific
programs related to biodiversity conservation, geohazards management, and water
resources.

4. Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage:

Pakistan has a rich tapestry of intangible cultural heritage, such as traditional music, crafts,
and festivals. UNESCO helps in safeguarding and promoting these cultural expressions.

5. Supporting Media Development:

UNESCO collaborates with Pakistani media organizations to enhance journalistic standards,
promote freedom of expression, and ensure the safety of journalist.

UNICEF:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a specialized agency of the United Nations
that is committed to promoting the well-being and rights of children worldwide. Established
on December 11, 1946, UNICEF operates in more than 190 countries and territories and
works tirelessly to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, thrive, and reach
their full potential. Its focus areas include health, nutrition, education, child protection,
water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and emergency response.

History and Development:

The origins of UNICEF can be traced back to the aftermath of World War II. In 1946, the
United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) was created by the United
Nations General Assembly to provide urgent humanitarian aid to children in war-torn Europe
and China. UNICEF's original mission was to address the immediate needs of children
affected by the war, including providing food, clothing, and medical assistance.
Over time, UNICEF's mandate evolved beyond emergency response to focus on long-term
development programs that support children's rights and well-being. In 1953, UNICEF
became a permanent part of the United Nations system, and its name was shortened to the
United Nations Children's Fund, while retaining the acronym UNICEF.

Role and Objectives:

UNICEF's primary role is to advocate for the protection and rights of children, ensuring that
their voices are heard and their needs are met. The organization operates based on the
principles outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), adopted by the United
Nations in 1989. The CRC lays down a comprehensive framework for the rights of every
child, encompassing civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

UNICEF's key objectives:

1. Health and Nutrition:
UNICEF works to ensure access to quality healthcare, immunizations, and nutrition programs
for children and mothers, combating preventable diseases and malnutrition.

2. Education:
The organization supports initiatives to provide equitable and quality education to all
children, particularly in disadvantaged communities, aiming to eliminate barriers to learning.

3. Child Protection:
UNICEF advocates for the protection of children from violence, exploitation, abuse, and
neglect, promoting child-friendly justice systems and social services.

4. Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH):

UNICEF strives to provide access to clean water, improved sanitation facilities, and hygiene
education, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.

5. Emergency Response:
In times of humanitarian crises such as natural disasters and conflicts, UNICEF rapidly
deploys teams to provide life-saving aid and protection to affected children and families.

6. Gender Equality:
UNICEF promotes gender equality, working to eliminate discrimination and empower girls
and women in all aspects of life.

UNICEF and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):

UNICEF collaborates extensively with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to implement
its programs and reach vulnerable communities effectively. These partnerships with NGOs
leverage local expertise and knowledge, allowing UNICEF to work closely with communities
and tailor interventions to specific needs. NGOs play a crucial role in delivering services on
the ground and advocating for children's rights within their respective regions.

Activities and Programs:

UNICEF's programs and activities are diverse and cater to the unique needs of each country
and community. Some of its core programs include:
1. Immunization Campaigns:
UNICEF supports vaccination programs to protect children from preventable diseases such as
polio, measles, and tetanus.

2. Nutrition Interventions:
UNICEF works to address malnutrition through therapeutic feeding programs, promoting
breastfeeding, and advocating for proper nutrition for children.

3. Education Initiatives:
The organization supports initiatives to improve access to education, train teachers, provide
learning materials, and create child-friendly learning environments.

4. Child Protection Services:

UNICEF works to prevent child exploitation, abuse, and trafficking, and supports the
reintegration of child soldiers and victims of violence.

5. WASH Projects:
UNICEF helps communities gain access to clean water, improved sanitation, and hygiene
facilities, which significantly impact health outcomes.

6. Emergency Response and Disaster Relief:

In humanitarian crises, UNICEF provides immediate assistance, including food, shelter,
medical supplies, and protection services.

7. Advocacy and Policy Influence:

UNICEF advocates for policy changes and increased government investment in children's
well-being and protection.

UNICEF and Pakistan:

Pakistan is one of the countries where UNICEF has been actively involved in various
initiatives to improve the lives of children and women. The country faces significant
challenges related to child health, education, and protection. UNICEF works in close
partnership with the government of Pakistan, NGOs, and other stakeholders to address
these challenges.
Some of the key areas of focus for UNICEF in Pakistan include:

1. Immunization:
UNICEF supports Pakistan's Expanded Program on Immunization to ensure children receive
essential vaccines and are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.

2. Education:
UNICEF works to increase access to quality education, particularly for girls and children in
remote and marginalized communities.

3. Health and Nutrition:

The organization supports programs to improve maternal and child health, combat
malnutrition, and address waterborne diseases.

4. Child Protection:
UNICEF advocates for the protection of children's rights, including efforts to combat child
labor, child marriage, and violence against children.

5. Polio Eradication:
UNICEF is actively involved in Pakistan's efforts to eradicate polio, providing technical
support and resources for vaccination campaigns.

6. Emergency Response:
Pakistan is prone to natural disasters, and UNICEF is ready to respond with life-saving aid
and protection during emergencies.

WHO:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations
responsible for international public health. Established in 1948, WHO plays a crucial role in
coordinating and directing global health efforts, providing technical assistance, setting health
standards, and promoting research. As a leading international authority on health, WHO
works to combat diseases, improve healthcare systems, and ensure equitable access to
health services worldwide. This article delves into the history, development, activities, and
impact of WHO, with a focus on its relationship with Pakistan.

History and Development of WHO:

The origins of WHO can be traced back to the mid-19th century when international health
conferences first took place. The 1851 International Sanitary Conference laid the foundation
for cooperation among countries to combat infectious diseases. Subsequent conferences in
the early 20th century further emphasized the need for a permanent international health
body. The impetus for the establishment of WHO emerged after World War II, recognizing
the importance of global health cooperation.
On April 7, 1948, the WHO Constitution came into force, with 61 member states. Its
headquarters is in Geneva, Switzerland. Since its inception, WHO has played a pivotal role in
responding to health emergencies, addressing disease outbreaks, and improving overall
healthcare standards worldwide.

Role and Functions of WHO:

WHO's primary role is to act as a coordinating authority for global health. Its functions
encompass a wide range of activities, including:

1. Setting Health Policies and Standards:

WHO develops evidence-based health policies, guidelines, and standards to improve
healthcare services and address health challenges across member states.

2. Monitoring Global Health Trends:

WHO gathers and analyzes health data, tracking global health trends to identify emerging
threats and challenges.

3. Emergency Response:
In times of health emergencies, such as pandemics or natural disasters, WHO mobilizes
resources and expertise to support affected countries and coordinate international
responses.

4. Disease Eradication and Control:

WHO leads efforts to eradicate or control infectious diseases, such as polio, malaria,
tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.

5. Health System Strengthening:

WHO assists member states in building robust and resilient healthcare systems to ensure
access to essential health services.

6. Vaccination and Immunization Programs:

WHO plays a crucial role in promoting immunization campaigns to prevent vaccine-
preventable diseases.

7. Research and Development:

WHO fosters research and development in various health areas, facilitating advancements in
medicine and healthcare technologies.

8. Health Education and Advocacy:

WHO works to raise awareness about health issues, promote healthy behaviors, and
advocate for health-related policies.

WHO and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):

WHO collaborates with numerous Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to achieve its
goals. NGOs play a vital role in supporting WHO's efforts at the local, national, and
international levels. These organizations contribute to healthcare delivery, community
engagement, research, and advocacy. NGOs partner with WHO in emergencies, resource
mobilization, and implementing health programs in underserved regions.

WHO's Activities and Initiatives:

Over the years, WHO has undertaken various initiatives and activities to address global
health challenges. Some notable ones include:

1. Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI):

Launched in 1988, in collaboration with UNICEF, Rotary International, and the CDC, GPEI
aims to eradicate polio worldwide. Significant progress has been made, with polio cases
reduced by over 99%.

2. Stop TB Partnership:
WHO leads the global fight against tuberculosis through the Stop TB Partnership. The
initiative focuses on reducing TB cases, deaths, and ensuring universal access to TB care.

3. Roll Back Malaria (RBM):

WHO is a key partner in the RBM initiative, which aims to control and eliminate malaria
through prevention, diagnosis, and treatment efforts.

4. WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC):

This treaty, adopted in 2003, aims to reduce tobacco-related harm through measures such
as increased taxes, smoking bans, and health warnings.

5. Health for All:

WHO's vision of "Health for All" advocates for universal health coverage, ensuring that all
people can access essential health services without financial hardship.

6. Global Vaccine Action Plan (GVAP):

The GVAP, spearheaded by WHO, aims to improve vaccination coverage and protect people
from vaccine-preventable diseases.

WHO and Pakistan:

Pakistan has a significant relationship with WHO, and the organization has been actively
involved in addressing the country's health challenges. Some key aspects of WHO's
engagement with Pakistan include:

1. Polio Eradication Efforts:

Pakistan has been one of the last strongholds of polio, and WHO has been supporting the
country's efforts to eradicate the disease through vaccination campaigns and community
engagement.
2. Emergency Responses:
Pakistan has faced several health emergencies, including disease outbreaks and natural
disasters. WHO has provided technical expertise, medical supplies, and financial assistance
to aid response efforts.

3. Health Systems Strengthening:

WHO collaborates with Pakistan to strengthen its healthcare system, improve healthcare
delivery, and enhance the capacity of healthcare workers.

4. Disease Surveillance and Monitoring:

WHO assists Pakistan in disease surveillance, helping to detect outbreaks early and respond
effectively.

5. Health Promotion and Education:

WHO works with Pakistan to raise awareness about health issues, promote healthy
behaviors, and advocate for health-related policies.