The United Nations
The UN has evolved into a global forum where member states can discuss and address a wide range of issues, including diplomacy, conflict resolution, human rights, development, and humanitarian aid.
Membership: The UN is composed of 193 member states, each with equal representation in the General Assembly. The Security Council, one of the main organs of the UN, has five permanent members with veto power (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and ten rotating members.
Objectives: The UN's primary objectives, as outlined in its Charter, include maintaining international peace and security, promoting human rights, fostering social and economic development, providing humanitarian assistance, and serving as a platform for dialogue among nations.
Structure: The UN consists of six main organs: the General Assembly, the Security Council, the International Court of Justice, the Secretariat, the Economic and Social Council, and the Trusteeship Council (which is inactive as of my knowledge cutoff in January 2022).
Peacekeeping: The UN is known for its peacekeeping efforts, where it deploys international troops and observers to conflict zones to help maintain or restore peace. Peacekeeping missions are typically authorized by the Security Council.
Human Rights: The UN plays a crucial role in promoting and protecting human rights globally. It has established various mechanisms and agencies, such as the United Nations Human Rights Council, to address human rights issues and violations.
Development: The UN is involved in global development initiatives and works through agencies like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to address poverty, inequality, education, health, and other development challenges.
International Law: The UN contributes to the development and enforcement of international law. The International Court of Justice, often referred to as the World Court, settles legal disputes between states.