United Nations

Definition

The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, aimed at promoting peace, security, and cooperation among countries. It was created in the aftermath of World War II to prevent future conflicts and to foster international collaboration on issues such as human rights, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development. The UN also plays a significant role in establishing norms related to gender equality and women's rights, particularly through initiatives led by influential figures like Eleanor Roosevelt.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eleanor Roosevelt was instrumental in shaping the UN's approach to human rights, serving as the first chairperson of the UN Commission on Human Rights from 1946 to 1951.
2. The UN established the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, with Eleanor Roosevelt advocating strongly for gender equality within this framework.
3. The Commission on the Status of Women was established in 1946 as part of the UN's efforts to promote gender equality and empower women worldwide.
4. The UN holds annual meetings where issues related to women’s rights are discussed, making it a platform for raising awareness and enacting change.
5. The UN's work on women's rights has influenced national policies and international treaties aimed at improving women's status globally.

Review Questions

• How did Eleanor Roosevelt's involvement with the United Nations influence its policies on gender equality?
  • Eleanor Roosevelt's leadership as the first chairperson of the UN Commission on Human Rights significantly influenced the organization's policies on gender equality. She advocated for women's rights to be included in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, highlighting their importance in achieving overall human rights. Her work laid the foundation for ongoing discussions about women's roles and rights within international law and frameworks.
• What impact did the Universal Declaration of Human Rights have on global perspectives regarding gender equality after its adoption by the United Nations?
  • The Universal Declaration of Human Rights set a universal standard for human rights, which included principles advocating for gender equality. Following its adoption, it inspired countries around the world to adopt national laws and policies promoting women's rights and addressing discrimination. This document provided a legal framework for women's advocacy groups to challenge inequalities and push for reforms, thus transforming global perspectives on gender issues.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations' initiatives aimed at improving women's status globally and their implications for future progress.
  • The United Nations has implemented various initiatives aimed at improving women's status globally, such as establishing the Commission on the Status of Women and hosting conferences focused on gender equality. While these efforts have raised awareness and spurred progress in many areas, challenges remain, including persistent discrimination and violence against women. The effectiveness of these initiatives can be evaluated through increased participation of women in politics, education, and the workforce; however, ongoing commitment from member states will be crucial for sustained progress and addressing remaining gaps in equality.

Related terms

Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A landmark document adopted by the United Nations in 1948 that outlines fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

Commission on the Status of Women: A functional commission of the United Nations that focuses on women's rights and gender equality globally.

Eleanor Roosevelt:

An American political figure and activist who served as the first chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights and played a crucial role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.