Who isn’t a member of the UN? While the United Nations (UN) is one of the largest international organizations, not every country is a member. Vatican City and Palestine are notable exceptions, with Vatican City holding observer status and Palestine being a non-member observer state. Understanding why some entities aren’t members can provide insights into international relations and political dynamics.
Why Aren’t Some Countries Members of the UN?
What Is the United Nations?
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945, aimed at fostering international cooperation and maintaining peace and security. It includes 193 member states, making it one of the most comprehensive global organizations. However, not all countries or territories are part of this body.
Why Isn’t Vatican City a UN Member?
Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world by both area and population, is not a UN member. The Holy See, which governs Vatican City, holds permanent observer status. This allows it to participate in General Assembly sessions and international conferences without full voting rights. The Vatican prefers this status to maintain neutrality and focus on its spiritual mission rather than political involvement.
Why Is Palestine Not a Full UN Member?
Palestine is recognized as a non-member observer state. This status was granted in 2012, allowing Palestine to participate in debates and improve its international standing. However, full membership requires approval by the UN Security Council, where political dynamics, particularly the opposition of certain member states, have prevented Palestine from achieving full membership.
Other Entities and Regions Not in the UN
What Are Other Territories Not in the UN?
- Taiwan: Taiwan was a founding member of the UN as the Republic of China (ROC) but was replaced by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in 1971. Due to the "One China" policy, Taiwan is not recognized as a separate member state.
- Kosovo: Declared independence from Serbia in 2008, but not universally recognized, preventing UN membership.
- Western Sahara: A disputed territory with limited recognition and unresolved status, making it ineligible for membership.
What Is the Process for Becoming a UN Member?
To become a UN member, a country must:
- Submit an application to the UN Secretary-General.
- Receive a recommendation from the Security Council.
- Obtain a two-thirds majority vote in the General Assembly.
This process ensures that new members are widely accepted by existing members, maintaining the organization’s integrity and effectiveness.
People Also Ask
What Is Observer Status in the UN?
Observer status allows entities to participate in UN activities without full membership. Observers can engage in General Assembly debates and participate in some meetings. This status is often granted to entities that are not fully recognized as independent states.
How Many Countries Are in the UN?
As of 2023, there are 193 member states in the UN. This includes nearly every internationally recognized sovereign state.
Can a Country Be Expelled from the UN?
Yes, the UN Charter allows for the expulsion of a member state that persistently violates the principles of the organization. However, this requires a recommendation from the Security Council and a two-thirds majority vote in the General Assembly.
Why Did Taiwan Leave the UN?
Taiwan, as the Republic of China, was replaced by the People’s Republic of China in the UN in 1971. This change followed a shift in global diplomatic recognition from the ROC to the PRC as the legitimate representative of China.
What Benefits Do UN Members Receive?
UN membership provides countries with a platform for international diplomacy, access to humanitarian aid, and the ability to participate in global discussions on peace, security, and development.
Conclusion
While the United Nations includes most of the world’s countries, a few notable entities like Vatican City and Palestine remain outside full membership. Understanding the reasons behind their status can offer valuable insights into global politics and the complexities of international recognition. For those interested in further exploring this topic, consider delving into related areas such as international diplomacy and the role of observer states in global governance.
