Consisting of 193 member states, the United Nations is a global organisation which strives for peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet. Founded in 1945, it provides a forum for the world's nations to come together, discuss issues and find solutions, which transcend national boundaries. The UN has successfully ended conflicts across the world and has won the Nobel Peace Prize over ten times. However it has been criticized for the alleged abuse of power by nations, inaction and failure to prevent armed conflicts. So in a rapidly changing world – is the UN fit for purpose? Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC North America & UN correspondent Nada Tawfik about the structure, purpose and future of the United Nations. Produced by Cathy Young for BBC World Service.
This BBC podcast is supported by ads outside the uk.
You are actually radioactive and everything alive.
Is Unexpected elements from the BBC World Service.
Search for unexpected elements wherever you get your BBC podcasts.
So how did it happen?
Well, actually, that's a really important question.
The two countries were essentially enemies.
That is, of course, an allegation that has been leveled.
Everybody had a different definition of what the problem was.
Let's remember the background of all this.
Hello, I'm Clare Graham.
Welcome to the Explanation from the BBC World Service, where we ask the big questions and try to get you the answers here.
In the midst of war, the world's people collaborated in the drafting of a workable international constitution.
So a fresh vision and a fresh approach are required in the international structure which mankind is creating today.
The birth of the United nations in San Francisco, 1945.
Russia, China, Britain, France and America, the victors of World War II, made themselves the powerful, permanent members of the UN Security Council.
And they're still there.
We must all search our consciences and face the problems of the world head on so that one day all humanity may be free.
The BBC's New York and UN correspondent, Neda Tofig.
Welcome to the Explanation.