Britain and the UN

Question 1

Britain’s role in UN?

Answer 1

• Part of ‘big three’
• Key role in establishing UN in 1945
• China, USSR, USA, Britain drew up UN Charter
• 5 permanent members of Security Council –> each permanent member has a veto over Security Council decisions

Question 2

What were the principles of UN Charter?

Answer 2

• Maintenance of international peace and security.
• Prevention of aggression
• Peaceful settlement of international disputes
• Addressing economic, social and cultural problems
• Promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion

Question 3

Influence of UN membership in British policy?

Answer 3

• British governments need to be seen as conforming to UN principles –> especially with increase in global media coverage.

Question 4

Times when Britain has used veto?

Answer 4

Suez Crisis - In conjunction with France, when USA and USSR accused them of trying to re-establish colonial power over Egypt

1963-73 - Afro-Asian nations accused Britain of supporting white supremacy, Britain vetoed six Security Council resolutions on Rhodesia

April 1986 - Thatcher’s government supported the USA in vetoing a resolution criticising the US bombing of Libya. Many in Africa regarded the bombing as Western imperialism

Question 5

Africa and Asian countries

Answer 5

• vetoing resolutions against white minority rule in southern Africa